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Pathophysiology of Ectopic Pregnancy

  • During a normal pregnancy, a fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube and implants in the uterine lining, where it develops into an embryo. In ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube.

  • The exact cause of ectopic pregnancy is often unknown, but it can result from factors that impair the movement of the fertilized egg through the fallopian tube or prevent its descent into the uterus.

  • Common sites of ectopic implantation include the fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix, and abdominal cavity. The fallopian tube is the most common location, accounting for approximately 95% of all ectopic pregnancies.

  • As the embryo grows within the fallopian tube, it causes distention and stretching. This can lead to tubal rupture, causing severe abdominal pain, internal bleeding, and potentially life-threatening complications.

  • If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can lead to hemorrhage, shock, and even death. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate intervention are essential to prevent these complicatio

Questions on Pathophysiology of Ectopic Pregnancy

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The statement "Contraceptive failure is unrelated to the risk of ectopic pregnancy" is inaccurate. Contraceptive failure, especially in cases of intrauterine devices (IUDs), can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. When contraception fails, there is a higher chance of pregnancy occurring outside the uterus. Now, let's move on to the next question.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The statement "I've noticed an increase in fetal movements recently" is not relevant in the context of ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies do not develop into viable pregnancies, so fetal movements should not be expected. Now, let's move on to the next question.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]

Explanation

Normal serum beta-hCG levels (choice E) are not indicative of ectopic pregnancy. Beta-hCG levels may still rise in an ectopic pregnancy, but they tend to increase at a slower rate compared to a normal intrauterine pregnancy. However, normal beta-hCG levels alone are not sufficient to diagnose ectopic pregnancy. To summarize, ectopic pregnancy is associated with severe abdominal pain (choice A), vaginal bleeding (choice B), and adnexal tenderness (choice D). These findings, along with other clinical and diagnostic criteria, can help healthcare providers identify and manage ectopic pregnancies.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Ectopic pregnancies cannot result in the delivery of a healthy baby. They are not viable pregnancies, and if left untreated, they can lead to severe complications, including rupture and life-threatening bleeding. Providing false hope by suggesting a healthy baby will result from the surgery is inappropriate and inaccurate.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Smoking is associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. Nicotine and other toxic substances in cigarettes can affect the function of the fallopian tubes and increase the chances of ectopic implantation. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to convey that smoking can impact the occurrence of ectopic pregnancy.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Waiting for further symptoms to develop is not an appropriate approach for managing suspected ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening, and a missed menstrual period combined with symptoms like abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding should raise suspicion. Prompt evaluation and treatment are necessary to prevent complications.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Feeling occasional rectal pressure is not a common symptom of ectopic pregnancy. While ectopic pregnancies can cause abdominal discomfort, this statement does not align with the typical presentation of ectopic pregnancy. However, it is essential to assess this symptom further to rule out any other potential issues, but it does not directly indicate a need for further education on ectopic pregnancy.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]

Explanation

Ordering a transvaginal ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the severity is an appropriate nursing intervention. Transvaginal ultrasound is a valuable tool for diagnosing ectopic pregnancy and determining its location and severity.

"You will need to have both fallopian tubes removed during surgery" is an inaccurate statement. Surgeons aim to preserve the fallopian tube whenever possible, and removal of both fallopian tubes is not the standard approach for ectopic pregnancy management. The goal is to save the tube whenever feas

Beta-hCG levels are primarily used to evaluate the presence of sexually transmitted infections. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Beta-hCG levels are not used to evaluate sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are primarily used to assess pregnancy-related conditions, including ectopic p

Reassuring the patient about the pregnancy outcome. Rationale: While providing emotional support and reassurance is important, it should not take precedence over pain management in this situation. The patient's immediate physical well-being is the top priority. Once the pain is under control, the nu

"All pregnancies require education." Rationale: While education about pregnancy is important, it is not the primary reason for educating the client and their family about ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is a specific medical condition that requires unique information and considerations. Providi

Contraception is not effective in preventing ectopic pregnancy. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Contraception, when used correctly and consistently, can significantly reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills, condoms, and intrauterine devices (

No explanation

<p>Skin rash.<br /> Rationale: A skin rash is not typically associated with ectopic pregnancy.<br /> Ectopic pregnancy symptoms primarily involve the reproductive system and may include abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and signs of shock in cases of rupture.<br /> </p>
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