A nurse is caring for a client who has a suspected ectopic pregnancy at 8 weeks of gestation. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect to identify as consistent with the diagnosis?

A. Uterine enlargement greater than expected is typical of a normal intrauterine pregnancy, as the uterus grows to accommodate the developing fetus. In ectopic pregnancy, the uterus may remain small because implantation occurs outside the uterine cavity. B. Severe nausea and vomiting are common in normal early pregnancy due to hormonal changes, but they are not specific indicators of ectopic pregnancy. C. Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain is a hallmark sign of ectopic pregnancy, often caused by the distension or irritation of the fallopian tube where the fertilized ovum implants. Pain may be sharp or colicky and localized to one side. D. Vaginal bleeding in ectopic pregnancy is usually light, often described as spotting, and may be accompanied by abdominal pain. A large amount of bleeding is less common unless tubal rupture occurs, which represents a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.