A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and experiences abruptio placenta.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Hypertension.
Uterine tenderness.
Fetal tachycardia.
Leukorrhea.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice B rationale:
Uterine tenderness is a common symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice C rationale:
Fetal tachycardia is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice D rationale:
Leukorrhea is not associated with abruptio placentae.
The most likely finding the nurse should expect in a client experiencing abruptio placenta during labor is:
b. Uterine tenderness.
Here's why:
- Hypertension (a): While preeclampsia can increase the risk of abruptio placenta, it's not always present, and hypertension wouldn't be the immediate expected finding during the abruption event itself.
- Fetal tachycardia (c): This can occur in early stages of abruption to compensate for decreased oxygen supply, but as the abruption becomes more severe, fetal bradycardia is more likely due to oxygen deprivation.
- Leukorrhea (d): This is a white vaginal discharge and has no connection to abruptio placenta.
Uterine tenderness is a characteristic sign of abruptio placenta due to bleeding behind the placenta and irritation of the uterine muscle. This is often accompanied by:
- Vaginal bleeding (bright red or dark)
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Sudden, ongoing uterine tightening or irritability
- Fetal distress (decreased fetal heart rate movements)
Therefore, option b is the most expected finding in this scenario.
Remember: Early recognition and prompt management of abruptio placenta are crucial for optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. If you suspect abruptio placenta, immediate medical attention is essential.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A previous delivery at 37 weeks gestation is considered full term, not a risk factor for preterm delivery.
Choice B rationale:
A previous cervical cerclage indicates a history of cervical insufficiency, which is a risk factor for preterm delivery.
Choice C rationale:
A previous reactive non-stress test is a positive sign of fetal well-being, not a risk factor for preterm delivery.
Choice D rationale:
A previous delivery of a newborn weighing 2.5 kg (5.5 Ib) is within the normal range, not a risk factor for preterm delivery.
Correct Answer is ["D","E","H"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
BUN is within the normal range (10 to 20 mg/dL), so it's not an indication of a potential complication.
Choice B rationale:
Potassium is slightly below the normal range (3.5 to 5 mEq/L), indicating potential hypokalemia, which can be a complication.
Choice C rationale:
Hct is at the upper limit of the normal range (33% to 49%), but still within normal, so it's not a complication.
Choice D rationale:
Weight loss of 2 kg in 1 month during pregnancy is concerning and could indicate a complication such as hyperemesis gravidarum.
Choice E rationale:
Heart rate is slightly elevated, which could indicate dehydration, a potential complication.
Choice F rationale:
Sodium is slightly below the normal range (136 to 145 mEq/L), but this alone is not typically a complication of pregnancy.
Choice G rationale:
Hgb is within the normal range (11 to 16 g/dL), so it's not a complication.
Choice H rationale:
Urine-specific gravity is above the normal range (1.005 to 1.030), indicating potential dehydration, a complication.
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.
