External Maternal Monitoring Related

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A woman in labor begins to experience a sudden increase in vaginal bleeding and the fetal heart rate decelerates. What is the likely cause of these symptoms?

  • A. Placenta previa
  • B. Placental abruption
  • C. Uterine rupture
  • D. Cervical laceration
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Placental abruption. Placental abruption is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, leading to vaginal bleeding and fetal distress. The sudden increase in bleeding and fetal heart rate deceleration are hallmark signs of placental abruption. Placenta previa (choice A) involves bleeding without fetal distress. Uterine rupture (choice C) typically presents with severe abdominal pain and shock. Cervical laceration (choice D) would not cause fetal heart rate deceleration.