A woman develops sudden breathlessness, hypotension, and confusion during birth. She later has bleeding from intravenous puncture sites. Which finding suggests disseminated intravascular coagulation?
Correct answer: B. Persistent oozing from several puncture sites
- A. Mild ankle oedema after prolonged standing
- B. Persistent oozing from several puncture sites
- C. A small amount of lochia after vaginal birth
- D. A soft abdomen with occasional uterine cramps
Explanation
Persistent oozing from venepuncture sites suggests consumption of clotting factors and platelets, as occurs in disseminated intravascular coagulation. This may complicate amniotic fluid embolism and requires immediate reporting, blood tests, and coordinated blood product support. Mild oedema and normal lochia do not indicate DIC.
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About Obstetric Emergencies
Acute threats to the mother or fetus include postpartum haemorrhage, eclampsia, shock, cord prolapse, shoulder dystocia, uterine rupture, amniotic fluid embolism and fetal distress. The subject covers rapid assessment, airway and circulation support, emergency medicines, positioning, preparation for assisted or operative birth, and coordinated referral.
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