A pregnant woman presents with sudden onset of severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. On examination, her abdomen is rigid, and fetal parts are palpable abdominally. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Uterine rupture is the most likely cause of these symptoms in a pregnant woman presenting with sudden onset of severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, rigidity of the abdomen, and palpable fetal parts abdominally. Uterine rupture is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy, typically occurring during labor in women with a previous cesarean delivery or other uterine scars. The sudden onset of severe abdominal pain can be associated with vaginal bleeding due to the tearing of the uterine wall, causing fetal parts to be palpable abdominally. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical intervention. Ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ovarian torsion may present with abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding but would not typically present with palpable fetal parts abdominally in a pregnant woman.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A prolapsed umbilical cord is a medical emergency during labor because it can cause compression of the umbilical cord, leading to decreased oxygen supply to the fetus. The priority nursing action in this situation is to prepare for an immediate cesarean section. This is necessary to quickly deliver the baby and relieve pressure on the cord, preventing potential fetal distress or death. Elevating the mother's hips may help reduce pressure on the cord temporarily, but it is not the definitive treatment for a prolapsed cord. Administering intravenous fluids rapidly may be necessary, but it is not the priority intervention when the fetus is at risk due to a prolapsed cord. Performing a vaginal examination to assess cervical dilation is contraindicated in the presence of a prolapsed umbilical cord as it can further compress the cord and worsen the situation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When a woman in active labor demonstrates signs of cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) with the fetal head failing to descend despite strong contractions, the nursing action that should be prioritized is to prepare for immediate instrumental delivery. CPD can lead to a prolonged and difficult labor, increasing the risks for both the mother and the fetus. In cases where the fetal head is not descending adequately and the mother's contractions are strong, instrumental delivery, like forceps or vacuum extraction, may be necessary to facilitate the safe delivery of the baby. It is important to act promptly to avoid potential complications associated with prolonged labor. Other actions, such as performing a pelvic exam, changing maternal positions, or administering oxytocin, may be considered but addressing the issue of CPD efficiently through instrumental delivery should take precedence in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Uterine hyperstimulation is a condition in which the uterus contracts too frequently or too intensely, leading to decreased blood flow and oxygenation to the placenta. This can result in maternal fatigue and decreased fetal oxygenation due to the lack of sufficient rest intervals between contractions. Uterine hyperstimulation can be caused by factors such as the use of synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) to induce or augment labor, uterine abnormalities, or maternal conditions like pre-eclampsia. It is important for the nurse to assess for uterine hyperstimulation in a woman experiencing frequent and intense contractions to intervene promptly and prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Postural hypotension, also known as orthostatic hypotension, is a common issue postpartum and can cause lightheadedness when standing up. When a postpartum client expresses concern about feeling lightheaded, assessing for postural hypotension should be a priority. This assessment involves measuring the client's blood pressure while lying down, sitting, and standing to identify any significant drops in blood pressure upon changing positions. Identifying postural hypotension early allows for appropriate interventions to prevent potential falls and address the client's symptoms. Checking blood pressure, evaluating hemoglobin levels, and monitoring for signs of hemorrhage are also important assessments but may not directly address the specific issue of feeling lightheaded when standing up in this scenario.