A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and reports sudden, severe lower abdominal pain. The nurse observes a drop in the client's blood pressure and notes cool skin and pallor. The fetal heart rate tracing shows prolonged bradycardia. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?
Amniotic fluid embolism
Umbilical cord prolapse
Uterine rupture
Placenta previa
The Correct Answer is C
Uterine rupture. The sudden, severe lower abdominal pain, drop in blood pressure, and signs of shock such as cool skin and pallor all point to a potential intra-abdominal hemorrhage most likely due to Uterine rupture. Additionally, the prolonged bradycardia on the fetal heart rate tracing indicates that the baby may be experiencing fetal distress due to a compromised blood supply. Amniotic fluid embolism triggers an allergic reaction, causing a sudden onset of respiratory distress, hypotension, and cardiac arrest. Option D, placenta previa, occurs when the placenta implants in the lower uterine segment, partially or completely covering the cervical os. This can lead to painless vaginal bleeding but typically does not present with sudden, severe abdominal pain or signs of shock.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The client's cervical dilation and effacement indicate that she is in active labor and progressing rapidly. Because the client is already 8 cm dilated and has been in labor for only 1 hour, the nurse should recognize that the client is at risk for a rapid delivery, which can increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. The other options listed are not associated with cervical dilation and effacement during active labor.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
: Rh-positive blood test results. Rho(D) immune globulin is indicated for Rh-negative women who are pregnant and for those who have had a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or induced abortion. It is also indicated for Rh-negative women who give birth to Rh-positive infants. The administration of Rho(D) immune globulin prevents the Rh-negative mother from forming antibodies against Rh-positive fetal cells that may have entered her bloodstream.
Choice A, prescription for an amniocentesis, is not an indication for the administration of Rho(D) immune globulin. Choice B, anemia, and choice C, hyperemesis gravidarum, are also not indications for the administration of Rho(D) immune globulin.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.