A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and experiences abruptio placenta.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Hypertension.
Uterine tenderness.
Fetal tachycardia.
Leukorrhea.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice B rationale:
Uterine tenderness is a common symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice C rationale:
Fetal tachycardia is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice D rationale:
Leukorrhea is not associated with abruptio placentae.
The most likely finding the nurse should expect in a client experiencing abruptio placenta during labor is:
b. Uterine tenderness.
Here's why:
- Hypertension (a): While preeclampsia can increase the risk of abruptio placenta, it's not always present, and hypertension wouldn't be the immediate expected finding during the abruption event itself.
- Fetal tachycardia (c): This can occur in early stages of abruption to compensate for decreased oxygen supply, but as the abruption becomes more severe, fetal bradycardia is more likely due to oxygen deprivation.
- Leukorrhea (d): This is a white vaginal discharge and has no connection to abruptio placenta.
Uterine tenderness is a characteristic sign of abruptio placenta due to bleeding behind the placenta and irritation of the uterine muscle. This is often accompanied by:
- Vaginal bleeding (bright red or dark)
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Sudden, ongoing uterine tightening or irritability
- Fetal distress (decreased fetal heart rate movements)
Therefore, option b is the most expected finding in this scenario.
Remember: Early recognition and prompt management of abruptio placenta are crucial for optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. If you suspect abruptio placenta, immediate medical attention is essential.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering ephedrine IV is not the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. Ephedrine is typically used to treat hypotension during spinal anesthesia, not amniotic fluid embolism.
Choice B rationale:
Assisting the client to empty their bladder is not the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. While bladder care is important, it is not the priority in this situation.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing for the presence of clonus is not the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. Clonus is typically assessed in clients with preeclampsia or eclampsia, not amniotic fluid embolism.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation is the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. Amniotic fluid embolism can lead to cardiovascular collapse, therefore, immediate resuscitation measures should be prepared15.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The amount of amniotic fluid around the fetus is determined by an ultrasound, not an indirect Coombs’ test.
Choice B rationale:
The indirect Coombs’ test is used to detect Rh-positive antibodies in the mother’s blood.
Choice C rationale:
The risk of hypoglycemia in the newborn is not determined by the indirect Coombs’ test.
Choice D rationale:
Blood flow in the fetus and placenta is studied using Doppler ultrasound, not an indirect Coombs’ test.
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