Question

In a woman who is suspected of having a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, the nurse would expect to assess for which of the following as a priority?

A) Hemorrhage
B) Jaundice
C) Edema
D) Infection

Answer 1

In the case of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, hemorrhage is the most immediate life-threatening concern and should be assessed as a priority by healthcare professionals.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a woman suspected of having a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, the nurse would expect to assess hemorrhage as a priority. This condition occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, commonly in the fallopian tubes.

When an ectopic pregnancy ruptures, it can cause substantial internal bleeding, posing an immediate threat to the patient.

Other possible side effects of pregnancy, such as edema, may certainly occur, but they do not represent the immediate life-threatening concern that hemorrhage does. In the context of ectopic pregnancy, while infection can be a concern, especially if there has been an intervention or if the condition is left untreated, it is not the primary emergency following rupture.

Jaundice is not typically associated with ectopic pregnancy and would not be a priority over hemorrhage in this case.