After childbirth, a woman reports severe perineal pressure and pain. Her uterus is firm, but her pulse is rising and only a small amount of blood is visible vaginally. Which complication should the nurse suspect?

Correct answer: A. A concealed genital tract haematoma

  • A. A concealed genital tract haematoma
  • B. A completely contracted uterus
  • C. Normal postpartum lochia
  • D. Mild bladder distension

Explanation

A genital tract haematoma can collect blood internally, causing severe pain, pressure, tachycardia, and little visible vaginal bleeding despite a firm uterus. The nurse should urgently assess and notify the obstetric team because blood loss may be concealed.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? support@testustad.com

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.

Practise Obstetric Emergencies

50 free Obstetric Emergencies MCQs from Midwifery and Obstetric Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Midwifery and Obstetric Nursing questions like this

Midwifery and Obstetric Nursing is on 9 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Obstetric Emergencies questions