A nurse is caring for a patient who is in labor at 40 weeks of gestation and reports that she has saturated two perineal pads in the past 30 minutes.
The nurse suspects placenta previa.
What would be an appropriate nursing action in this situation?
Administer a magnesium sulfate infusion.
Initiate pushing.
Prepare for a cesarean birth.
Examination to determine cervical status.
The Correct Answer is C
If a patient in labor at 40 weeks of gestation reports saturating two perineal pads in the past 30 minutes, and placenta previa is suspected, an appropriate nursing action would be to prepare for a cesarean birth. Placenta previa, where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening, can cause significant bleeding and is typically managed with a cesarean delivery to prevent further bleeding and ensure the safety of the mother and baby.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["-"]
Explanation
The nurse is observing a potential case of shoulder dystocia, a condition where the baby’s head has been delivered but one of the shoulders becomes stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone. The nurse should monitor the mother’s vital signs and the baby’s heart rate. The nurse should call for immediate assistance, perform maneuvers to help deliver the baby, and prepare for a potential emergency cesarean section if necessary.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Abdominal pain accompanied by minimal red vaginal bleeding is not a typical symptom of placenta previa. In placenta previa, the placenta covers all or part of the cervix, which can cause severe bleeding. However, this bleeding is typically not associated with abdominal pain.
Choice B rationale
Intermittent abdominal pain following the passage of bloody mucus is not a common symptom of placenta previa. This symptom is more commonly associated with labor or other conditions, but not specifically with placenta previa.
Choice C rationale
Increasing abdominal pain with a nonrelaxed uterus is not a typical symptom of placenta previa. This could be a sign of other complications such as uterine rupture or placental abruption, which are serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Choice D rationale
Painless red vaginal bleeding is indeed a symptom of placenta previa. This bleeding is usually bright red and can occur intermittently or continuously. It is most common in the third trimester of pregnancy.
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