Maternal mortality in the United States is the lowest of any industrialized country.

Choice A rationale

Infection of the uterus typically presents with fever, foul-smelling lochia, and uterine tenderness, not bright red vaginal bleeding with a firm fundus. Firm fundus decreases the likelihood of retained products causing infection.

Choice B rationale

Uterine atony causes excessive vaginal bleeding due to the uterus's inability to contract effectively, but it doesn't apply here since the fundus is firm, indicating adequate uterine tone.

Choice C rationale

Perineal hematoma results from blood vessel damage during delivery. It causes a tense, painful mass and vaginal or perineal swelling, not steady, bright red bleeding with a firm fundus.

Choice D rationale

Lacerations of the genital tract result in bright red bleeding despite a firm fundus, as the bleeding originates from tears in the vaginal or perineal tissues rather than uterine atony.

Choice A rationale

Uterine prolapse involves the descent of the uterus into the vaginal canal and is not a direct fatal complication of postpartum hemorrhage. It primarily stems from weakened pelvic floor muscles or ligament damage.

Choice B rationale

Von Willebrand’s disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder related to factor VIII and von Willebrand factor deficiencies, predisposing individuals to bleeding. It is not a direct result of prolonged postpartum hemorrhage.

Choice C rationale

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder associated with proteinuria and organ dysfunction during pregnancy, not a postpartum hemorrhage complication. It can lead to significant morbidity but is unrelated to hemorrhagic complications.

Choice D rationale

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) is a life-threatening condition involving widespread coagulation and fibrinolysis, leading to uncontrolled bleeding, often triggered by severe postpartum hemorrhage. Laboratory findings may include low platelets, prolonged PT/INR, and elevated D-dimer.