Question

A pregnant patient with chronic hypertension is at risk for placental abruption. Which symptoms of abruption does the nurse instruct the patient to be alert for? Select all that apply.

a. Weight loss
b. Abdominal pain
c. Vaginal bleeding
d. Shortness of breath
e. Uterine tenderness:

Answer 1

In the case of placental abruption, a pregnant patient with chronic hypertension should be vigilant for symptoms such as abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and uterine tenderness. Immediate medical attention should be sought if these occur.

Step-by-step explanation:

A pregnant patient with chronic hypertension is at risk for placental abruption. The nurse should instruct the patient to be alert for symptoms that are indicative of this condition. While some symptoms of pregnancy can include weight gain, nausea, and frequent urination, the signs of placental abruption specifically to watch out for include:

• Abdominal pain
• Vaginal bleeding
• Uterine tenderness

These symptoms are serious and should prompt immediate medical attention. Notably, weight loss and shortness of breath are not typically associated symptoms of placental abruption, though they can be related to other pregnancy complications.