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The nurse is caring for a postpartum client who has experienced an abruptio placentae. Which assessment indicates that DIC is occurring?

a. Boggy uterus
b. Hypovolemic shock
c. Multiple vaginal clots
d. Bleeding at the venipuncture site.

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

Bleeding at the venipuncture site indicates that Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) may be occurring in a postpartum client who experienced an abruptio placentae.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse caring for a postpartum client who has experienced an abruptio placentae is monitoring for complications, such as Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). Among the listed assessment findings, bleeding at the venipuncture site is an indication that DIC may be occurring. DIC is a serious condition where blood clots form throughout the body's small blood vessels, leading to the consumption of clotting factors and platelets, resulting in widespread bleeding, even from minor injuries or in areas with no apparent trauma.

While a boggy uterus may indicate uterine atony and possible hemorrhage, and hypovolemic shock and multiple vaginal clots can be complications related to excessive bleeding, they are not specific to DIC. However, the presence of uncontrolled bleeding at a venipuncture or other non-traumatic sites is a hallmark of this condition and requires immediate medical attention.

User Patrick Wilkes
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