A nurse is assessing a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and reports sudden, severe abdominal pain with moderate vaginal bleeding and persistent uterine contractions. The client's blood pressure is 88/50 mm Hg and their abdomen is rigid. The nurse should identify these findings as indicating which of the following complications?

Placental abruption

Uterine rupture

Placenta previa

Amniotic fluid embolus

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Placental abruption: Placental abruption is characterized by the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery of the fetus. Sudden, severe abdominal pain, moderate to severe vaginal bleeding, persistent uterine contractions, and uterine rigidity are classic signs and symptoms of placental abruption. Hypotension may occur due to hemorrhage, leading to decreased perfusion to vital organs.
B. Uterine rupture: Uterine rupture involves a tear in the uterine wall, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and signs of shock. However, uterine rupture typically occurs during labor or delivery, particularly in women with a history of uterine surgery or trauma.
C. Placenta previa: Placenta previa is characterized by the implantation of the placenta over or near the internal cervical os. It can cause painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester, particularly after 20 weeks of gestation. However, it is not typically associated with severe abdominal pain or uterine rigidity.
D. Amniotic fluid embolus: An amniotic fluid embolus occurs when amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris enter the maternal circulation, leading to a potentially life-threatening reaction. Symptoms may include sudden dyspnea, hypotension, cardiovascular collapse, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). While it can cause severe complications, the symptoms described in the scenario are more consistent with placental abruption.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Initiate IV access on the palmar side of the client's wrist. - This option is not recommended because veins on the palmar side of the wrist are smaller and more prone to infiltration and nerve damage. The dorsal aspect of the hand or forearm is typically preferred for peripheral IV access due to larger veins and decreased risk of complications.
B. Choose the client's dominant arm for IV access whenever possible. - While it may be convenient to select the dominant arm for IV access, it is not always the best choice. Factors such as previous venipunctures, condition of veins, and patient comfort should be considered when selecting the site for IV insertion.
C. Select a site proximal to previous venipuncture sites. - This is the correct action. Choosing a site proximal (above) to previous venipuncture sites helps preserve veins and reduces the risk of venous sclerosis or phlebitis. It allows for better vein integrity and decreases the likelihood of complications associated with repeated punctures in the same area.
D. Insert a larger gauge IV catheter to prevent phlebitis. - Inserting a larger gauge IV catheter is not necessary to prevent phlebitis. In fact, using a larger gauge catheter may increase the risk of phlebitis and other complications. The appropriate gauge of the catheter depends on the client's condition, the type of fluids or medications to be administered, and the condition of the veins.

A. "You might feel a bit confused for a few hours after the procedure." B. "You might notice some changes in your-voice after the procedure." C. "You'll wake up about 30 minutes after the procedure." D. "You can expect to feel some pulsation's in your neck during the procedure."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "You might feel a bit confused for a few hours after the procedure": Confusion is a common side effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) immediately following the procedure. It typically resolves within a few hours as the effects of anesthesia wear off. Providing this information prepares the client for potential post-procedure effects.
B. "You might notice some changes in your voice after the procedure": Changes in voice are not typically associated with ECT. Therefore, this statement is not relevant to the client's education about what to expect during or after the procedure.
C. "You'll wake up about 30 minutes after the procedure": The duration of unconsciousness following ECT can vary from person to person. While clients typically awaken within minutes after the procedure, specifying a time frame of 30 minutes may not accurately reflect individual experiences.
D. "You can expect to feel some pulsations in your neck during the procedure": Feeling pulsations in the neck is not a common sensation experienced during ECT. This statement does not accurately describe the procedure or its associated sensations.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is inserting a short peripheral IV catheter for a client who requires IV fluids. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is teaching a client who has major depressive disorder about what to expect when undergoing electroconvulsive therapy. Which of the following information should the nurse give the client?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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