A nurse in Labor and Delivery is caring for a client who just experienced SROM (spontaneous rupture of membranes) after her epidural.The client immediately states she is short of breath.
The nurse lays the patient back and places oxygen on her when the client goes into complete cardiorespiratory failure.
The nurse should recognize that this client is experiencing which of the following obstetrical emergencies?

Choice A rationale

Anaphylactoid syndrome of pregnancy (also known as amniotic fluid embolism) occurs when amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris enter the mother's bloodstream, triggering a serious reaction. It can cause sudden shortness of breath, cardiovascular collapse, and other severe symptoms immediately after a rupture of membranes and is a rare but critical obstetrical emergency.

Choice B rationale

Abruptio placentae involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, which leads to bleeding and potential fetal and maternal distress. However, it does not typically present with sudden cardiorespiratory collapse or shortness of breath immediately following membrane rupture.

Choice C rationale

Uterine rupture refers to a tear in the wall of the uterus, usually due to trauma, labor stress, or previous surgical scars. While it is a severe condition, it usually presents with abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and fetal distress rather than sudden respiratory failure.

Choice D rationale

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a condition affecting blood clotting processes, often secondary to other conditions like severe preeclampsia, sepsis, or trauma. It generally presents with bleeding and clotting issues but not sudden respiratory or cardiovascular collapse.