A nurse is caring for a client who has an abruptio placentae. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. First trimester bleeding: Abruptio placentae typically occurs in the third trimester, not the first. First trimester bleeding is more commonly associated with conditions like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. B. Nausea: Nausea is a non-specific symptom of pregnancy and not a hallmark of abruptio placentae. It does not help distinguish this condition from other obstetric complications. C. Delayed menses: Delayed menses is an early sign of pregnancy, not a finding related to abruptio placentae. It occurs long before the placenta forms and has no diagnostic value in placental abruption. D. Severe abdominal pain: Abruptio placentae involves premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, leading to intense, persistent abdominal pain, uterine tenderness, and often vaginal bleeding. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.