Abruptio Placenta Nursing Care Plan and Management

Notes

Description
  • Abruptio placenta is premature separation of a normally implanted placenta after the 20th week of pregnancy, typically with severe hemorrhage.
EtiologyAbruptio placentae
  1. The cause of abruptio placenta is unknown.
  2. Risk factors include:
    • Uterine anomalies
    • Multiparity
    • Preeclampsia
    • Previous cesarean delivery
    • Renal or vascular disease
    • Trauma to the abdomen
    • Previous third trimester bleeding
    • Abnormally large placenta
    • Short umbilical cord
Pathophysiology
  • The placenta detaches in whole or in par from the implantation site. This occurs in the area of the deciduas basalis.
Assessment Findings
  1. Associated findings. Severe abruption placentae may produce such complications as:
    1. Renal failure
    2. Disseminated intravascular coagulation
    3. Maternal and fetal death
  2. Common clinical manifestation include:
    1. Intense, localized uterine pain, with or without vaginal bleeding.
    2. Concealed or external dark red bleeding
    3. Uterus firm to boardlike, with severe continuous pain
    4. Uterine contractions
    5. Uterine outline possibly enlarged or changing shape
    6. FHR present or absent.
    7. Fetal presenting part may be engaged.
  3. Laboratory and diagnostic study findings.
    • Ultrasound may be able to identify the extent of abruption. However, the absence of an ultrasound finding does not rule out the presence of abruption.
Nursing Management
  1. Continuously evaluate maternal and fetal physiologic status, particularly:
    • Vital signs
    • Bleeding
    • Electronic fetal and maternal monitoring tracings
    • Signs of shock-rapid pulse, pallor, cold and most skin, decrease in blood pressure
    • Decreasing urine output
    • Never perform a vaginal or rectal examination or take any action that would stimulate uterine activity.
  2. Assess the need for immediate delivery. If the client is in active labor and bleeding cannot be stopped with bed rest, emergency cesarean delivery may be indicated.
  3. Provide appropriate management.
    • On admission, place the woman on bed rest in a lateral position to prevent pressure on the vena cava.
    • Insert a large gauge intravenous catheter into a large vein for fluid replacement. Obtain a blood sample for fibrinogen level.
    • Monitor the FHR externally and measure maternal vital signs every 5 to 15 minutes. Administer oxygen to the mother by mask.
    • Prepare for cesarean section, which is the method of choice for the birth.
  4. Provide client and family teaching.
  5. Address emotional and psychosocial needs. Outcome for the mother and fetus depends on the extent of the separation, amount of fetal hypoxia, and amount of bleeding.

 

Exam

Welcome to your MCHN Exam for Abruptio Placentae! This exam is carefully curated to help you consolidate your knowledge and gain deeper understanding on the topic.

 

Exam Details

  • Number of Questions: 10 items
  • Mode: Practice Mode

Exam Instructions

  1. Practice Mode: This mode aims to facilitate effective learning and review.
  2. Instant Feedback: After each question, the correct answer along with an explanation will be revealed. This is to help you understand the reasoning behind the correct answer, helping to reinforce your learning.
  3. Time Limit: There is no time limit for this exam. Take your time to understand each question and the corresponding choices.

Tips For Success

  • Read each question carefully. Take your time and don't rush.
  • Understand the rationale behind each answer. This will not only help you during this exam, but also assist in reinforcing your learning.
  • Don't be discouraged by incorrect answers. Use them as an opportunity to learn and improve.
  • Take breaks if you need them. It's not a race, and your understanding is what's most important.
  • Keep a positive attitude and believe in your ability to succeed.

Remember, this exam is not just a test of your knowledge, but also an opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills. Enjoy the learning journey!

 

Click 'Start Exam' when you're ready to begin. Best of luck!

💡 Hint

Consider the characteristic symptoms of abruptio placentae, including the nature of the pain and the type of bleeding.

1 / 10

1. A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with abruptio placentae. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse expect?

💡 Hint

Consider the blood dyscrasia that is often associated with obstetric emergencies and involves widespread activation of clotting leading to bleeding.

2 / 10

2. Nurse Reynolds is attending to a pregnant woman who has been rushed to the emergency department with a diagnosis of abruptio placentae at 34 weeks' gestation. Recognizing the potential complications associated with this condition, Nurse Reynolds is particularly vigilant for signs of certain blood dyscrasias. Which blood condition is the patient at increased risk for developing due to abruptio placentae?

💡 Hint

Think about the immediate actions needed to assess the condition of both the mother and fetus in a potential emergency situation.

3 / 10

3. A pregnant patient at 32 weeks gestation presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and a tense, board-like abdomen. The nurse suspects abruptio placentae. Which initial intervention is the priority?

💡 Hint

Think about which option represents a localized effect rather than the systemic coagulopathy seen in DIC.

4 / 10

4. Maria is a maternity nurse caring for Barbara, a client diagnosed with abruptio placentae. To monitor for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), Maria checks Barbara's lab results and assessments. Which of the following findings would Maria recognize as least indicative of DIC?

💡 Hint

Consider the symptoms specifically associated with abruptio placenta, particularly in terms of the nature and appearance of vaginal bleeding.

5 / 10

5. Nurse Taylor is caring for a client with a suspected diagnosis of abruptio placenta. She knows it's crucial to conduct a thorough assessment to identify the key signs of this condition. Which finding is Nurse Taylor most likely to observe in a client experiencing abruptio placenta?

💡 Hint

Identify the condition that specifically refers to the premature and often sudden detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall, a scenario frequently associated with severe bleeding.

6 / 10

6. Nurse Miller is reviewing obstetric complications with her team and focuses on conditions characterized by the premature separation of the placenta. She describes a specific condition that involves the early detachment of a normally implanted placenta during the latter part of pregnancy, often leading to significant bleeding. Which condition is Nurse Miller discussing?

💡 Hint

Consider which option reflects a common symptom of placental abruption resulting from concealed bleeding into the uterus.

7 / 10

7. Jenna is a nurse caring for Sarah, a client in her second trimester who was admitted with suspected abruptio placentae. As part of her assessment, Jenna needs to identify key clinical manifestations of this condition. Which of the following would Jenna expect to observe if Sarah has abruptio placentae?

💡 Hint

Focus on conditions that can impact placental health and blood pressure during pregnancy.

8 / 10

8. Which patient history would most likely indicate a higher risk for developing abruptio placentae?

💡 Hint

Consider the seriousness of abruptio placentae, especially at term gestation, and the standard immediate intervention to prevent further complications for both the mother and the fetus.

9 / 10

9. Nurse Brown is caring for a client at term gestation who is experiencing moderate vaginal bleeding. An ultrasound confirms the presence of abruptio placentae. Understanding the urgency and potential complications of this condition, Nurse Brown prepares the client for the immediate next steps in management. What should Nurse Brown anticipate as the most appropriate course of action for this client?

💡 Hint

Focus on the factor that has a documented association with a recurrent risk of the same obstetric complication in subsequent pregnancies.

10 / 10

10. Nurse Rogers is leading a prenatal class and discussing various risk factors for obstetric complications. When the topic of placental abruption comes up, she wants to emphasize a particular factor that significantly increases the likelihood of this serious condition. Which factor should Nurse Rogers highlight as increasing the risk of placental abruption?

Nursing Care Plan


Ineffective Tissue Perfusion

Related to:
  • Excessive blood loss
Possibly evidenced by:
  • Loss of blood
  • FHR pattern
  • Altered BP compared to baseline
  • Altered PR Severe abdominal pain and rigidity
  • Pallor
  • Changes in LOC
  • Decrease urine output
  • Edema
  • Delay in wound healing
  • Positive Homan’s sign
  • Skin temperature changes
Desired outcome:
Nursing Interventions Rationale
Assess patient’s vital signs, O2 saturation, and skin color. For baseline data.
Monitor for restlessness, anxiety, hunger and changes in LOC These conditions may indicate decreased cerebral perfusion
Monitor accurately I&O To obtain data about renal perfusion and function and the extent of blood loss.
Monitor FHT continuously To provide information regarding fetal distress and/or worsening of condition
Assess uterine irritability, abdominal pain and rigidity. To determine the severity of the placental abruptio and bleeding
Assess skin color, temperature, moisture, turgor, capillary refill To determine peripheral tissue perfusion like hypervolemia.
Elevate extremity above the level of the heart Helps promote circulation.
Teach patient not to apply uterine pressure Uterine pressure can cause pooling of venous blood in lower extremities
Instruct patient and/or SO to report immediately signs and symptoms of thrombosis: (1) pain in leg, groin (2) unilateral leg swelling (3) pale skin To immediately provide additional interventions

Risk for Shock

Related to:
  • Significant blood loss of about 10% of the blood volume
  • Separation of the placenta
  • External or internal bleeding
Possibly evidenced by:
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Couvelaire uterus or a tense and rigid uterus
  • Increased pulse rate
  • Decreased blood pressure
  • Increased respiratory rate
  • Decreased central venous pressure
  • Decreased urine output
  • Decreasing level of consciousness
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Fetal bradycardia
Desired outcomes:
  • Patient will display hemodynamic stability.
  • Patient will regain vital signs within the normal range.
  • Patient will be able to verbalize understanding of disease process, risk factors, and treatment plan.
  • Patient will display a normal central venous pressure.
  • Patient’s skin is warm and dry.
  • Fetal heart rate is within normal range.
  • Patient will exhibit an adequate amount of urine output with normal specific gravity.
  • Patient will display the usual level of mentation.
Nursing Interventions Rationale
Assess for history or presence of conditions leading to hypovolemic shock. The condition may deplete the body’s circulating blood volume and the ability to maintain organ perfusion and function.
Monitor for persistent or heavy fluid or blood loss. The amount of fluid or blood loss must be noted to determine the extent of shock.
Assess vital signs and tissue and organ perfusion. For changes associated with shock states
Review laboratory data. To identify potential sources of shock and degree of organ involvement.
Collaborate in prompt treatment of underlying conditions and prepare for or assist with medical and surgical interventions. To maximize systemic circulation and tissue and organ perfusion.
Administer oxygen by appropriate route. To maximize oxygenation of tissues.
Administer blood or blood products as indicated. To rapidly restore or sustain circulating volume and electrolyte balance.
Monitor uterine contractions and fetal heart rate by external monitor. Assesses whether labor is present and fetal status; external system avoids cervical trauma.
Withhold oral fluid. Anticipates need for emergency surgery.
Measure intake and output. Enables assessment of renal function.
Measure maternal blood loss by weighing perineal pads and save any tissue that has passed. Provides objective evidence of amount bleeding.
Maintain a positive attitude about fetal outcome. Supports mother-child bonding.
Provide emotional support to the woman and her support person. Assists problem solving which is lessened by poor self-esteem.

Acute Pain

Related to:
  • Sudden separation of placenta from the uterine wall
  • Pain accompanying labor contractions during initial separation
Possibly evidenced by:
  • Sharp, stabbing pain high in the uterine fundus
  • Uterine tenderness
Desired outcomes:
  • Patient will report relief or control of pain.
  • Patient will follow prescribed pharmacological regimen.
  • Patient will verbalize non pharmacological methods that provide relief.
  • Patient will demonstrate use of relaxation skills and diversional activities as indicated.
Nursing Interventions Rationale
Assess for referred pain as appropriate. To help determine the possibility of underlying condition or organ dysfunction requiring treatment.
Note client’s locus of control. Individuals with external locus of control may take little or no responsibility for pain management.
Note and investigate changes from previous reports of pain. To rule out worsening of underlying condition or development of complications.
Acknowledge the client’s description of pain and convey acceptance of client’s response to pain. Pain is a subjective experience and cannot be felt by others.
Monitor skin color and temperature and vital signs. These are usually altered in acute pain.
Note when pain occurs. To medicate as appropriate.
Provide comfort measures, quiet environment, and calm activities. To promote non pharmacological pain management.
Administer analgesics as indicated. To maintain an acceptable level of pain.
Encourage adequate rest periods. To prevent fatigue.