Adult Health Nursing Test Bank Related

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A woman in active labor is experiencing precipitous labor with rapid cervical dilation and descent of the fetal presenting part. What maternal complication should the nurse anticipate?

  • A. Postpartum hemorrhage
  • B. Uterine atony
  • C. Shoulder dystocia
  • D. Placental abruption
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Precipitous labor is characterized by rapid cervical dilation and descent of the fetal presenting part, leading to a shortened labor duration of less than 3 hours. This rapid progression can increase the risk of maternal complications, such as postpartum hemorrhage. Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as excessive bleeding of more than 500 ml after vaginal delivery or more than 1000 ml after cesarean delivery. The rapid delivery in precipitous labor can result in inadequate uterine contractions after delivery, leading to poor uterine tone and potential postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony. Therefore, the nurse should anticipate postpartum hemorrhage as a potential maternal complication in a woman experiencing precipitous labor.