Question

What interventions are appropriate for managing a patient with placenta previa?

a) Bed rest
b) Ultrasound to locate placenta
c) No vaginal exams/intercourse
d) Daily hemoglobin, hematocrit monitoring

Answer 1

In managing placenta previa, interventions include bed rest, using ultrasounds to locate the placenta, avoiding vaginal exams or intercourse, and daily monitoring of hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition known as placenta previa occurs when the placenta implants too close to the internal opening of the cervix, sometimes leading to partial or full coverage of the cervix. This can cause significant complications, including antepartum hemorrhage, which is profuse vaginal bleeding after week 24 of pregnancy but prior to childbirth. Appropriate interventions for managing a patient with placenta previa include:

• Bed rest to minimize the risk of bleeding.
• Using ultrasound to locate the placenta and assess the degree of coverage over the cervix. Ultrasound is a safe imaging study during pregnancy.
• Avoidance of vaginal exams or intercourse to prevent irritating the cervix, which might provoke bleeding.
• Daily hemoglobin and hematocrit monitoring to track any blood loss and the patient's capacity to carry oxygen.