A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant and has suspected placenta previa. Which of the following should the nurse monitor the client for?
Large amount of bright red vaginal bleeding
Severe pain with no bleeding
High-grade fever
Sudden sharp pain in the lower abdomen
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Large amount of bright red vaginal bleeding is the cardinal sign of placenta previa. This is because the placenta is abnormally positioned low in the uterus, covering the cervix partially or completely. When the cervix starts to dilate in preparation for labor, it can detach from the uterine wall, leading to significant bleeding. The blood is typically bright red, indicating fresh bleeding, and can be painless.
Severity of bleeding: The amount of bleeding can vary from spotting to massive hemorrhage, and it may start suddenly or gradually. Even a small amount of bleeding can be a sign of placenta previa and should not be ignored.
Risks of hemorrhage: Prompt recognition and management of bleeding are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening hemorrhage for both the mother and the fetus.
Choice B rationale:
Severe pain with no bleeding is not a typical presentation of placenta previa. While some women with placenta previa may experience mild abdominal pain or cramping, severe pain without bleeding is more suggestive of placental abruption, a condition where the placenta prematurely separates from the uterine wall.
Choice C rationale:
High-grade fever is not a direct symptom of placenta previa. However, if a woman with placenta previa develops a fever, it could indicate an infection, which can further complicate the condition and require immediate medical attention.
Choice D rationale:
Sudden sharp pain in the lower abdomen can be a sign of placental abruption but is not characteristic of placenta previa.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answers are Choices D
Choice A rationale: Constipation is a common symptom during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the intestines. It generally does not warrant immediate reporting to the provider unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Choice B rationale: Low back pain is also a typical complaint during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It is often due to the additional weight and changes in posture. While it can be uncomfortable, it is usually not an urgent concern unless it is severe or associated with other symptoms.
Choice C rationale: Leukorrhea, or increased vaginal discharge, is common during pregnancy and is generally not a cause for concern. It helps protect the birth canal from infection and is typically not something that requires immediate reporting unless it is accompanied by itching, foul odor, or unusual color.
Choice D rationale: Blurred vision is a potential sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy and pose risks to both the mother and baby. This symptom warrants immediate reporting to the provider for further evaluation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. Placenta previa.
Choice A rationale:
Threatened abortion typically occurs in the first trimester and involves vaginal bleeding with or without abdominal pain. It is not associated with late pregnancy bleeding.
Choice B rationale:
Placenta previa is characterized by painless, bright red vaginal bleeding in the third trimester. It occurs when the placenta covers the cervix, leading to bleeding as the cervix begins to dilate.
Choice C rationale:
Preterm labor involves uterine contractions leading to cervical changes before 37 weeks of gestation. While it can cause bleeding, it is usually accompanied by regular contractions and not typically described as bright red bleeding.
Choice D rationale:
Abruptio placentae involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, leading to painful, dark red vaginal bleeding. It is often associated with abdominal pain and uterine tenderness, which differentiates it from placenta previa.
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