A pregnant woman presents with sudden onset of severe lower abdominal pain and syncope. On examination, she appears pale, and her abdomen is distended and tense. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Questions 164

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Adult Health Nursing First Chapter Quizlet Questions

Question 1 of 5

A pregnant woman presents with sudden onset of severe lower abdominal pain and syncope. On examination, she appears pale, and her abdomen is distended and tense. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Placenta previa is a condition in pregnancy where the placenta implants low in the uterus, partially or completely covering the cervix. This can lead to painless, bright red vaginal bleeding in the third trimester. However, in some cases, placenta previa can also present with sudden onset of severe lower abdominal pain and signs of shock, such as syncope, pallor, and abdominal distention due to concealed bleeding. In severe cases, the bleeding can be significant and life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. It is important to promptly diagnose and manage placenta previa to prevent complications.

Question 2 of 5

A woman in active labor is receiving intravenous magnesium sulfate for the prevention of eclampsia. What maternal assessment finding indicates magnesium toxicity?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent eclampsia, but it can lead to toxicity if levels become too high. One common sign of magnesium toxicity is increased deep tendon reflexes, also known as hyperreflexia. This occurs because magnesium is a muscle relaxant, and elevated levels can lead to over-relaxation of muscles, causing an exaggerated reflex response. Other signs of magnesium toxicity include respiratory depression, decreased urine output, and cardiac arrest. Therefore, in a woman receiving intravenous magnesium sulfate during labor, an increase in deep tendon reflexes would indicate potential toxicity and require immediate intervention.

Question 3 of 5

A woman in active labor is diagnosed with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) due to uterine atony. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a woman in active labor diagnosed with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) due to uterine atony is to massage the uterus to promote contraction. Uterine massage helps to stimulate uterine muscle tone and contraction, which can help control bleeding by reducing the size of blood vessels and promoting hemostasis. It is important to address the uterine atony promptly to prevent further blood loss and stabilize the patient's condition. Other interventions such as blood transfusion, administering antibiotics, and elevating the mother's legs can be considered based on the patient's response to the initial intervention of uterine massage.

Question 4 of 5

A woman in active labor presents with prolonged second stage, characterized by ineffective pushing efforts and slow fetal descent. What maternal condition should the nurse assess for that may contribute to this abnormal labor pattern?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to a prolonged second stage of labor by impairing the ability of the woman to effectively push during contractions. This can result in inefficient pushing efforts and slow fetal descent. The nurse should assess for signs and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, such as difficulty controlling bowel movements or urine leakage, as addressing this issue may help improve the progress of labor. Maternal fatigue, fetal macrosomia (larger than average baby size), and uterine hyperstimulation are other factors that can impact labor but are less likely to specifically contribute to ineffective pushing efforts and slow fetal descent in the second stage of labor.

Question 5 of 5

A woman in active labor presents with a prolonged latent phase, characterized by irregular and infrequent contractions. What maternal condition should the nurse assess for that may contribute to this abnormal labor pattern?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Maternal dehydration can contribute to a prolonged latent phase during labor. Dehydration can lead to reduced blood volume and electrolyte imbalances, which can result in ineffective uterine contractions. Without adequate hydration, the uterus may not contract effectively, causing irregular and infrequent contractions. It is important for the nurse to assess the woman's hydration status and encourage her to stay hydrated during labor to help regulate contractions and progress labor.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions