A pregnant woman presents with severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding at 8 weeks gestation. On examination, the cervix is closed. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a pregnant woman presenting with severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding at 8 weeks gestation with a closed cervix, the most likely cause of these symptoms is a threatened abortion. A threatened abortion is a common complication of early pregnancy characterized by vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain without cervical dilation. The cervix remains closed, indicating that the pregnancy is still intact but at risk of potential miscarriage. Placenta previa typically presents with painless vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester, whereas ectopic pregnancy usually presents with abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding in the setting of a closed cervix but is less likely at 8 weeks gestation. Gestational trophoblastic disease is a rare cause of vaginal bleeding in pregnancy and typically presents in the first trimester with signs of hyperemesis gravidarum, uterine enlargement, and elevated β-hCG levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The appropriate nursing intervention in this case is to encourage the mother to walk to facilitate labor progression. The patient is in early labor with contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 45 seconds each, and her cervix is dilated to 3 cm. Encouraging the mother to walk can help gravity assist the descent of the baby and promote cervical dilation. Walking can also help alleviate some discomfort and encourage labor progression. It is important to promote natural, non-invasive methods to support the progress of labor before considering medical interventions such as oxytocin or cesarean section. Relaxation techniques can also be beneficial in managing pain during labor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention to facilitate fetal rotation in a woman experiencing persistent occiput posterior position is to assist the mother into a hands-and-knees position. This position can help encourage the baby to rotate into the optimal occiput anterior position for delivery. By being on her hands and knees, gravity can assist in aiding the rotation of the baby. This position can also help relieve pressure on the mother's back and potentially reduce discomfort during labor. Additionally, hands-and-knees position can help open up the pelvis and create more space for the baby to turn. It is a non-invasive and generally well-tolerated intervention to promote fetal rotation in labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: An amniotic fluid embolism is a rare and life-threatening complication during labor and delivery. It occurs when amniotic fluid or fetal cells enter the maternal circulation, triggering a rapid immune response that can lead to cardiovascular collapse and respiratory failure. The priority nursing intervention for a woman in active labor diagnosed with an amniotic fluid embolism is to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to support her vital functions and circulation. Providing immediate CPR can help sustain her until further medical interventions can be implemented. Administering oxygen and preparing for a cesarean section may be necessary but should occur after CPR is initiated to stabilize the woman's condition. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority in this emergency situation, as maintaining adequate cardiac and respiratory function takes precedence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Uterine rupture is a severe obstetric complication that requires prompt and decisive management to prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby. In cases of uterine rupture leading to fetal distress and maternal hemorrhage, performing an emergency cesarean section is crucial. This intervention allows for rapid delivery of the baby, relieving the distress on the fetus and enabling immediate access to manage the maternal hemorrhage. By performing a timely cesarean section, healthcare providers can expedite the delivery process and effectively address both the fetal and maternal complications associated with uterine rupture. This intervention is essential in saving lives and reducing the risk of further complications in such a critical obstetric emergency.