A nurse is caring for a client who has a suspected ectopic pregnancy at 8 weeks of gestation. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect to identify as consistent with the diagnosis?

Choice A reason: Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age is not a typical manifestation of ectopic pregnancy, because the embryo is implanted outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. The uterus may be slightly enlarged due to hormonal changes, but not more than expected for the gestational age.

Choice B reason: Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain is a common manifestation of ectopic pregnancy, because the embryo grows and stretches the fallopian tube, causing inflammation and irritation. The pain may be mild or severe, depending on the size and location of the ectopic pregnancy, and may radiate to the shoulder or back.

Choice C reason: Severe nausea and vomiting is not a specific manifestation of ectopic pregnancy, because it can be caused by other conditions, such as hyperemesis gravidarum, gastroenteritis, or appendicitis. The client may have mild nausea and vomiting due to hormonal changes, but not more than usual for the gestational age.

Choice D reason: Large amount of vaginal bleeding is not a usual manifestation of ectopic pregnancy, because the bleeding is usually internal, into the abdominal cavity. The client may have spotting or light bleeding due to the detachment of the endometrium, but not heavy or profuse bleeding.

Choice A reason: Hypocalcemia is not the priority focus of care, as it is a low level of calcium in the blood that can cause muscle twitching, seizures, or cardiac arrhythmias. Hypocalcemia can affect newborns who have mothers with diabetes mellitus, but it is less common and less severe than hypoglycemia.

Choice B reason: Hyperbilirubinemia is not the priority focus of care, as it is a high level of bilirubin in the blood that can cause jaundice, a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes. Hyperbilirubinemia can affect newborns who have macrosomia, but it is usually a benign and self-limiting condition that resolves within a few days.

Choice C reason: Hypomagnesemia is not the priority focus of care, as it is a low level of magnesium in the blood that can cause tremors, tetany, or seizures. Hypomagnesemia can affect newborns who have mothers with diabetes mellitus, but it is rare and usually asymptomatic.

Choice D reason: Hypoglycemia is the priority focus of care, as it is a low level of glucose in the blood that can cause diaphoresis, jitteriness, lethargy, or apnea. Hypoglycemia can affect newborns who have macrosomia and mothers with diabetes mellitus, as they have increased insulin production and decreased glucose supply after birth. Hypoglycemia can lead to brain damage or death if not treated promptly.