Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 70%
Simulated
A woman at 36 weeks gestation who is Rh negative is admitted to labor and delivery reporting abdominal cramping. She is placed on strict bedrest and the fetal heart rate and contraction pattern are monitored with an external fetal monitor. Two hours after admission, the nurse notes a large amount of bright red vaginal bleeding. Which nursing intervention has the highest priority?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Bright red vaginal bleeding at 36 weeks is a critical sign of potential placental issues. Assessing fetal heart rate and contractions ' is the highest priority to evaluate fetal well-being. Confirming Rh status ' is secondary. Leopold maneuvers ' and vaginal exams ' are not immediate priorities and may worsen bleeding.