A nurse is caring for a patient suspected of having an ectopic pregnancy at 8 weeks of gestation.
Which symptoms should the nurse expect to identify as consistent with the diagnosis?

Choice D rationale

Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain. This is a common symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. The pain usually starts on one side of the abdomen after the early stages of pregnancy and may be accompanied by spotting or vaginal bleeding.

Choice A rationale

Large amount of vaginal bleeding. While vaginal bleeding can occur in an ectopic pregnancy, it’s usually light to moderate, not large. Heavy vaginal bleeding is more commonly associated with miscarriage or other conditions.

Choice B rationale

Severe nausea and vomiting. While some women with an ectopic pregnancy may experience nausea and vomiting, these symptoms are common in early pregnancy and are not specific to ectopic pregnancy.

Choice C rationale

Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age. This is not a typical symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. In fact, because the pregnancy is not in the uterus, the size of the uterus may be smaller than expected for the gestational age.

Choice A rationale

Maintain the patient on bed rest. This is a common nursing intervention for a patient who is experiencing an inevitable abortion. Bed rest can help reduce the risk of further complications, such as heavy bleeding. It can also provide the patient with a chance to rest and recover physically and emotionally.

Choice B rationale

Offer the option to view products of conception. This intervention may not be appropriate for all patients. While some patients may find it helpful to view the products of conception, others may find it distressing. It’s important to discuss this option with the patient and respect her wishes.

Choice C rationale

Administer oxygen via a nasal cannula. This intervention may not be necessary for all patients experiencing an inevitable abortion. While oxygen therapy can be used to treat hypoxia in patients with heavy bleeding, it’s not typically required unless the patient shows signs of hypoxia.

Choice D rationale

Instruct the patient to increase potassium-rich foods in the diet. This intervention is not typically part of the care plan for a patient experiencing an inevitable abortion. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, there’s no specific need to increase potassium-rich foods in the diet in this situation.