ATI Capstone Maternal Newborn Related

Review ATI Capstone Maternal Newborn related questions and content

A nurse in the labor and delivery triage unit reviews the electronic medical record (EMR) of a client reporting severe abdominal pain. Which of the following findings is most consistent with abruptio placenta?

  • A. Low uterine tone with mild vaginal bleeding.
  • B. Rigid uterine tone with dark vaginal bleeding.
  • C. Soft uterine tone with painless vaginal bleeding.
  • D. Low uterine tone with absence of vaginal bleeding.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rigid uterine tone with dark vaginal bleeding is a hallmark of abruptio placenta. The rigidity arises from blood pooling behind the placenta, causing uterine muscle contraction. Dark vaginal bleeding occurs as the blood is often concealed and clotted before expulsion.