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Free Obstetric Emergencies MCQs with Answers

50 Obstetric Emergencies MCQs from Midwifery and Obstetric Nursing, each with the correct answer and a written explanation of why it is correct. Free and unlimited, with no account needed.

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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50 questions · page 3 of 3

41. A woman receiving oxytocin has seven uterine contractions in 10 minutes. The fetal heart rate is currently normal. Which action should the nurse take first?

Hard
  • A. Increase the oxytocin infusion rate
  • B. Stop the oxytocin infusion temporarily
  • C. Apply fundal pressure during contractions
  • D. Ask the woman to push with each contraction

Explanation: Seven contractions in 10 minutes indicate uterine tachysystole, which can reduce placental blood flow.

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Correct answer: Stop the oxytocin infusion temporarily

42. Which laboratory pattern is most consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation in an obstetric emergency?

  • A. Shortened clotting time and high fibrinogen
  • B. Prolonged clotting time and low fibrinogen
  • C. Normal clotting time and high platelets
  • D. Low clotting time and high fibrinogen

Explanation: DIC consumes clotting factors and fibrinogen, causing prolonged clotting times and thrombocytopenia.

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Correct answer: Prolonged clotting time and low fibrinogen

43. Which history places a pregnant woman at particular risk of placenta accreta and severe bleeding after birth?

  • A. Previous caesarean birth with placenta previa
  • B. Previous uncomplicated vaginal birth
  • C. Mild nausea during the first trimester
  • D. A family history of twin pregnancy

Explanation: Placenta previa over a previous caesarean scar strongly increases the risk of abnormal placental attachment, including accreta.

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Correct answer: Previous caesarean birth with placenta previa

44. A newborn is delivered after prolonged fetal distress and is not breathing effectively. Which equipment should the nurse ensure is immediately available?

  • A. Phototherapy unit and feeding tube
  • B. Resuscitation bag and correctly sized mask
  • C. Urinary catheter and specimen container
  • D. Adult nebulizer and peak-flow meter

Explanation: An ineffective-breathing newborn may need positive-pressure ventilation, so a neonatal bag and correctly sized mask are essential.

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Correct answer: Resuscitation bag and correctly sized mask

45. A woman with severe postpartum haemorrhage remains pale and tachycardic while blood is being prepared. Which blood component primarily restores oxygen-carrying capacity?

  • A. Packed red blood cells
  • B. Platelet concentrate
  • C. Fresh frozen plasma
  • D. Cryoprecipitate

Explanation: Packed red blood cells replace red cell mass and improve oxygen delivery during major blood loss.

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Correct answer: Packed red blood cells

46. A woman has persistent postpartum haemorrhage from suspected uterine atony despite uterine massage and uterotonic medicines. There is no evidence of uterine rupture or retained placenta. Which treatment should the nurse prepare for while urgent help is arranged?

Hard
  • A. Uterine balloon tamponade
  • B. Routine vaginal examination
  • C. Oral iron replacement
  • D. Immediate pelvic floor exercises

Explanation: A uterine balloon tamponade can apply pressure inside the uterus and control severe atonic bleeding when initial treatment is…

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Correct answer: Uterine balloon tamponade

47. At a basic health unit, a woman continues to have life-threatening postpartum haemorrhage while arrangements are made for transfer. Uterine massage and medicines have not controlled the bleeding. Which temporary action can help reduce blood loss during referral?

  • A. Apply external aortic compression
  • B. Place the woman flat on her back
  • C. Encourage oral fluids only
  • D. Apply a warm pack to the abdomen

Explanation: External aortic compression can temporarily reduce blood flow to the pelvis during severe postpartum haemorrhage when definitive care is…

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Correct answer: Apply external aortic compression

48. A woman in late pregnancy suddenly becomes pulseless in the hospital. Which action should the emergency team take immediately?

  • A. Begin CPR with manual left uterine displacement
  • B. Wait for fetal monitoring before starting CPR
  • C. Place the woman in a fully supine position
  • D. Give oral fluids before assessing circulation

Explanation: High-quality CPR must begin immediately, while manual left uterine displacement reduces aortocaval compression from the gravid uterus.

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Correct answer: Begin CPR with manual left uterine displacement

49. A woman in labour has severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, a tender uterus, and a non-reassuring fetal heart rate. Placental abruption is suspected. Which preparation is the priority after rapid maternal assessment?

Hard
  • A. Prepare for urgent birth and blood replacement
  • B. Encourage walking to improve labour progress
  • C. Perform repeated digital vaginal examinations
  • D. Delay intervention until bleeding becomes visible

Explanation: Placental abruption can cause concealed maternal haemorrhage and fetal compromise, so the team should prepare for urgent birth while…

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Correct answer: Prepare for urgent birth and blood replacement

50. A woman with severe obstetric haemorrhage becomes increasingly drowsy while oxygen is being given. Her breathing is shallow and ineffective. Which action has the highest priority?

  • A. Open the airway and assist ventilation
  • B. Measure her temperature again
  • C. Offer sips of clear water
  • D. Document the estimated blood loss

Explanation: An ineffective airway and breathing problem takes priority under the ABC approach, even when haemorrhage is also present.

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Correct answer: Open the airway and assist ventilation
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