Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM) Practice Exam

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

True The statement is true. Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) can indeed occur due to conditions that cause the uterus to be overstretched. These factors increase the pressure on the fetal membranes, making them more likely to rupture prematurely.

• Fetal Malpresentation: Abnormal positions of the fetus, such as breech or transverse lie, can create uneven pressure on the amniotic sac, leading to an increased risk of PROM.
• Multiple Pregnancies: In a multiple pregnancy (e.g., twins or triplets), the uterus is more distended due to the presence of more than one fetus, increasing the likelihood of the membranes rupturing prematurely.
• Polyhydramnios: An excessive amount of amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios) can overstretch the uterine walls and increase the tension on the amniotic sac, leading to a higher risk of PROM.

Imagine a balloon being overfilled with water (representing the uterus). If the balloon is stretched too thin (due to too much water or uneven pressure), it’s more likely to pop (rupture), similar to how the fetal membranes can rupture prematurely under excessive pressure.

Nurse Clara should educate the patient about the importance of regular prenatal care to monitor for these risk factors. Early detection and management of conditions like polyhydramnios or fetal malpresentation can help reduce the risk of PROM. She should also instruct the patient on recognizing the signs of PROM and the need to seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.

• Monitor the patient for signs of uterine overdistension, especially in cases of multiple pregnancies or polyhydramnios.
• Provide education on the signs of PROM, such as a sudden gush or continuous leaking of fluid from the vagina, and the importance of reporting these symptoms immediately.
• Encourage regular prenatal visits to detect and manage risk factors for PROM early.
• Discuss possible interventions if the patient is diagnosed with conditions that could lead to uterine overdistension, such as adjusting the amniotic fluid volume in polyhydramnios.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

True. The statement is true. While a sudden gush of clear, watery fluid from the vagina is a classic sign of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM), it is not always observed in every case. In some instances, the fluid leakage may be more gradual or may be mistaken for increased vaginal discharge or urinary incontinence. This can make PROM more difficult to recognize, especially if the fluid leaks in small amounts over time.

PROM occurs when the amniotic sac ruptures before labor begins and before 37 weeks of gestation. The rupture can result in the loss of amniotic fluid, which is typically clear and watery. However, the way the fluid leaks can vary; it might come out as a sudden gush, or it may leak slowly over time, making the diagnosis less obvious without further medical evaluation.

Think of the amniotic sac as a water balloon. Sometimes, if the balloon pops, water gushes out all at once, but other times, it might just start leaking slowly from a small hole, making it less noticeable.

Nurse Jenna should educate the patient on the various possible signs of PROM and emphasize the importance of reporting any unusual vaginal discharge or fluid leakage to their healthcare provider immediately for assessment.

• Educate the patient about all potential signs of PROM, including both a sudden gush of fluid and a more gradual, continuous leakage.
• Instruct the patient to contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience any fluid leakage, even if it's not a sudden gush, to rule out PROM.
• Advise the patient to note the color, odor, and amount of any fluid leakage and to avoid inserting anything into the vagina, such as tampons, until evaluated by a healthcare provider.
• Reassure the patient that even subtle changes in vaginal discharge or fluid loss should be reported and assessed to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and baby.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

True. The statement is true. Cervical incompetence, also known as cervical insufficiency, refers to a condition where the cervix is weak and begins to dilate prematurely, often without contractions. When cervical incompetence is combined with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM), the risk of umbilical cord prolapse is increased.

• Cervical Incompetence: In this condition, the cervix cannot maintain its integrity and begins to open early, which can allow the umbilical cord to slip into or near the cervical opening.
• PROM: When the membranes rupture prematurely, there is a sudden loss of amniotic fluid, which can cause the umbilical cord to descend alongside or ahead of the presenting fetal part, especially if the cervix is dilated or the fetal head is not well engaged.
• Umbilical Cord Prolapse: This is a serious obstetric emergency where the umbilical cord precedes the fetus’s exit from the uterus, which can lead to compression of the cord and compromised blood flow to the fetus, resulting in hypoxia or even death if not managed promptly.

Imagine the cervix as a gate and the umbilical cord as a rope. If the gate (cervix) opens too early and water (amniotic fluid) rushes out, it can pull the rope (umbilical cord) through the gate, which is dangerous because it can get squeezed and block the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the baby.

Nurse Rachel should educate the patient on the importance of recognizing signs of umbilical cord prolapse, such as sudden changes in fetal movement or the presence of a visible or palpable cord in the vaginal canal, and the need for immediate medical attention if this occurs. Proactive management of cervical incompetence, such as cerclage or bed rest, may also be discussed to reduce the risk of complications like cord prolapse.

• Monitor the patient for signs of labor and cord prolapse, particularly if there is a history of cervical incompetence.
• Educate the patient on the signs and symptoms of umbilical cord prolapse and the importance of seeking immediate care.
• Discuss preventive measures such as cervical cerclage or activity modification if cervical incompetence is diagnosed early in pregnancy.
• Ensure that the patient understands the potential risks associated with PROM and the importance of following up with their healthcare provider regularly.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

"Blunt trauma can sometimes cause PROM, but it’s not guaranteed." Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is the rupture of the amniotic sac before the onset of labor, and it can have various causes, including trauma. While blunt trauma to the abdomen, such as from a car accident, can potentially cause PROM, it is not an absolute outcome. The likelihood of PROM following trauma depends on several factors, including the severity of the trauma, the gestational age, the condition of the membranes before the trauma, and any underlying maternal conditions.

The amniotic sac, which contains the fetus and amniotic fluid, is surrounded by the fetal membranes (amnion and chorion). These membranes serve as a protective barrier, but they can rupture due to increased intrauterine pressure, trauma, or infection. Blunt trauma can lead to a sudden increase in intrauterine pressure, which may cause the membranes to rupture if they are weakened or if the trauma is significant. However, the membranes might remain intact if the trauma is minor or if they are in good condition.

Think of the amniotic sac like a water balloon. If you press on the balloon gently, it may stretch but remain intact. However, if you apply more force, the balloon might pop. The likelihood of it popping depends on the strength of the balloon (fetal membranes) and the amount of pressure applied (blunt trauma).

Nurse Kelly should conduct a thorough assessment, including monitoring for signs of PROM, such as fluid leakage, and evaluating fetal well-being through fetal heart rate monitoring. Reassuring the patient while providing accurate information is crucial to alleviate anxiety and ensure proper care.

• Assess for any signs of fluid leakage, which could indicate PROM.
• Monitor the fetal heart rate to ensure there is no fetal distress.
• Educate the patient on signs and symptoms of PROM and when to seek immediate medical attention.
• Coordinate with the healthcare provider for further evaluation, including an ultrasound if necessary.
• Provide emotional support and reassurance, while also explaining the importance of monitoring and follow-up.

✘Incorrect answer options:

"Blunt trauma always causes premature rupture of membranes." This statement is incorrect because blunt trauma does not always result in PROM. The occurrence of PROM after trauma depends on various factors, and while it is a risk, it is not guaranteed.

"PROM is very rare after blunt trauma, so there’s no need to worry." While PROM may not occur in every case of blunt trauma, it is not so rare that it can be dismissed. Nurse Kelly should provide balanced information, acknowledging the risk without causing undue alarm.

"Blunt trauma never causes PROM unless the membranes were already weak." This statement is misleading because blunt trauma can cause PROM even if the membranes were not previously weak, especially if the trauma is significant. The condition of the membranes before trauma is only one of many factors that contribute to the likelihood of PROM.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

A history of previous placental abruption. A history of previous placental abruption is one of the most significant risk factors for the recurrence of placental abruption in subsequent pregnancies. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta partially or completely detaches from the uterus before the baby is born, which can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the fetus, including hemorrhage, preterm birth, and fetal distress. When a patient has experienced this complication in a prior pregnancy, the likelihood of it happening again increases significantly.

Placental abruption involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall. This can result from a variety of factors, including trauma, hypertensive disorders, and a history of previous placental abruption. Once a patient has experienced abruption, the uterine environment may have undergone changes that predispose the placenta to detachment in future pregnancies.

Think of the placenta as a picture hanging on a wall. If the hook (the connection between the placenta and uterus) is damaged during a previous event, the picture is more likely to fall off the wall the next time it is hung. Similarly, a history of placental abruption weakens the "hook," increasing the risk of future detachments.

For patients with a history of placental abruption, it's crucial to monitor closely throughout the pregnancy. Preventative strategies may include controlling blood pressure, managing underlying conditions, and avoiding activities or substances that could increase the risk.

• Ensure regular prenatal visits to monitor the health of the mother and fetus.
• Educate the patient on recognizing early signs of placental abruption, such as vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain.
• Encourage stress management techniques and advise against smoking and substance abuse.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to manage any pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes that might exacerbate the risk.
• Prepare for potential complications during delivery, including the need for emergency interventions.

✘Incorrect answer options:

Age under 35 years. Maternal age under 35 is not a significant risk factor for placental abruption. The risk of placental abruption typically increases with advanced maternal age (over 35 years), rather than younger maternal age.

Gestational diabetes. While gestational diabetes is a risk factor for other pregnancy complications such as macrosomia and preterm birth, it is not strongly linked to an increased risk of placental abruption. The primary concerns with gestational diabetes involve blood glucose control and its effects on fetal growth.

Strenuous exercise. While certain types of physical trauma or stress might increase the risk of placental abruption, general strenuous exercise, especially when properly managed and not contraindicated, does not significantly increase the risk of placental abruption in a healthy pregnancy. In fact, exercise is often encouraged during pregnancy for overall maternal health.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

False. The statement is false. Hypoxia and asphyxia are not common complications of prolonged preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) for the woman in labor. These complications are primarily concerns for the fetus rather than the mother.

Prolonged PROM, which occurs when the amniotic sac ruptures more than 18 hours before labor starts, can lead to several complications, but these typically include infections like chorioamnionitis, umbilical cord prolapse, and preterm birth. These conditions can cause hypoxia or asphyxia in the fetus due to factors like umbilical cord compression or infection. However, the mother herself is not at risk of hypoxia or asphyxia as a direct result of PROM.

Think of the amniotic sac as a protective bubble around the baby. If the bubble breaks too soon (PROM), the baby inside may face issues like not getting enough oxygen (fetal hypoxia). But the person holding the bubble (the mother) is not at risk of running out of air herself.

Nurse Megan should educate the patient about the actual risks associated with prolonged PROM, such as infection and the potential for preterm birth, and ensure that both maternal and fetal health are closely monitored during this time.

• Monitor the mother for signs of infection, such as fever, foul-smelling discharge, and uterine tenderness.
• Closely monitor fetal well-being for signs of distress, which could indicate hypoxia or other complications.
• Educate the patient about the importance of reporting any changes in her condition, particularly signs of infection or decreased fetal movement.
• Provide emotional support and reassurance, clearly explaining the risks and the management plan to reduce anxiety and ensure patient understanding.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

True. The statement is true. Infection is both a potential cause and a complication of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM).

• Cause: Intrauterine infections, such as chorioamnionitis, can weaken the fetal membranes, increasing the risk of PROM. These infections lead to inflammation and degradation of the membranes, making them more prone to rupture prematurely.
• Complication: Once PROM has occurred, the protective barrier of the amniotic sac is lost, which increases the risk of ascending infections from the vaginal canal. This can lead to chorioamnionitis or other intrauterine infections, which pose significant risks to both the mother and the fetus, including preterm labor, fetal sepsis, and even neonatal death.

Imagine the amniotic sac as a sealed bag protecting the baby. If the bag is weakened by a problem (like an infection), it’s more likely to break (cause PROM). Once it’s broken, it’s easier for harmful things (like bacteria) to get inside, leading to further problems (complications).

Nurse Lisa should emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of infection, such as fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or uterine tenderness, and seeking immediate medical attention. Educating expectant mothers on maintaining good hygiene, attending all prenatal visits, and reporting any unusual symptoms can help reduce the risks associated with PROM.

• Monitor for signs and symptoms of infection, including maternal fever, foul-smelling discharge, and uterine tenderness.
• Encourage early and regular prenatal care to identify and manage risk factors that could contribute to PROM.
• Provide education on the importance of reporting any signs of PROM, such as a sudden gush or continuous leaking of fluid, as well as any symptoms of infection.
• Ensure the expectant mothers understand the potential complications of PROM and the importance of immediate medical evaluation if PROM occurs.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

"A rigid, boardlike abdomen." Abruptio placentae, or placental abruption, is a serious obstetric condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery. This condition is often characterized by the sudden onset of severe abdominal pain, which may or may not be accompanied by vaginal bleeding. A key clinical finding is a rigid, boardlike abdomen due to the accumulation of blood between the detached placenta and the uterine wall, leading to uterine muscle spasm and rigidity.

The premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall can lead to hemorrhage, which gets trapped between the placenta and the uterus. The bleeding causes the uterus to become distended, firm, and tender, often described as "boardlike" due to the intense muscular rigidity. This is a protective mechanism of the uterus responding to internal bleeding, and it is a hallmark sign of abruptio placentae.

Imagine you're carrying a heavy backpack that suddenly has a hole, causing some of the contents to shift and create uneven pressure against your back. This uncomfortable pressure makes the backpack feel stiff and unyielding. Similarly, in abruptio placentae, the internal bleeding causes pressure to build up between the placenta and the uterine wall, making the abdomen feel rigid and hard like that stiffened backpack.

If abruptio placentae is suspected, Nurse Sandra should prioritize maternal and fetal monitoring, prepare for potential emergency delivery, and manage blood loss and shock. The situation is an obstetric emergency, and prompt action is essential.

• Monitor maternal vital signs and fetal heart rate closely for signs of distress.
• Assess the amount and type of vaginal bleeding, if present.
• Prepare for possible emergency cesarean section if the fetal condition deteriorates.
• Establish IV access for fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion if necessary.
• Provide emotional support and clear communication to the patient and her family during this critical situation.

✘Incorrect answer options:

"Excessive vaginal bleeding." While vaginal bleeding can occur in abruptio placentae, it is not always present, especially in cases of concealed hemorrhage, where the blood collects behind the placenta and does not exit through the vagina. Therefore, excessive vaginal bleeding is not a definitive sign of abruptio placentae.

"Prolonged, tetanic uterine contractions." Although uterine contractions may be present, they are not specific to abruptio placentae and can occur in various other conditions during labor. The key distinguishing feature of abruptio placentae is the rigid, boardlike abdomen due to the concealed or visible hemorrhage.

"Premature rupture of membranes." PROM refers to the breaking of the amniotic sac before labor begins, which is a separate condition and not a primary symptom of abruptio placentae. PROM may or may not accompany placental abruption, but it is not a defining feature of the condition.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

Previous experience of preterm labor. A history of preterm labor is one of the most significant risk factors for subsequent preterm labor. Women who have experienced preterm labor in a previous pregnancy are at a higher risk of experiencing it again in future pregnancies. This is because the underlying causes that led to the previous preterm labor, such as uterine abnormalities, cervical insufficiency, or underlying medical conditions, may still be present and contribute to the risk of recurrence.

Preterm labor is often multifactorial, and a history of preterm labor suggests that the patient has a predisposition to the factors that cause early labor, such as cervical insufficiency, infections, or systemic inflammation. The recurrence risk increases with each subsequent preterm delivery, making close monitoring and early intervention crucial for women with this history.

Think of a history of preterm labor like a red flag on a race track. If a car has spun out in a particular spot before, there’s a higher chance it could happen again at the same spot. Similarly, if a woman has had preterm labor before, she’s more likely to experience it again.

Nurse Jenna should prioritize interventions that focus on preventing preterm labor, such as monitoring for early signs of labor, providing patient education, and possibly coordinating with the healthcare provider to consider treatments like progesterone supplementation or cervical cerclage, if appropriate.

• Closely monitor the patient for signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, back pain, or changes in vaginal discharge.
• Educate the patient on the importance of reporting any signs of preterm labor immediately to receive timely interventions.
• Discuss the patient’s history with the healthcare team to consider prophylactic measures, such as progesterone therapy or cerclage, if indicated.
• Ensure that the patient attends all prenatal appointments for close monitoring of her pregnancy and timely identification of any complications.

✘Incorrect answer options:

Prepregnancy BMI of 18.5. A BMI of 18.5 is on the lower end of the normal range, but it is not a significant risk factor for preterm labor. Although being underweight (BMI less than 18.5) can increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications, including preterm labor, a BMI of 18.5 itself does not significantly increase the risk.

Smoked 1/2 pack per day during pregnancy. Smoking during pregnancy is indeed a risk factor for preterm labor, but it is not as significant as a history of preterm labor. Smoking can contribute to other complications, such as low birth weight and placental problems, but it’s the history of preterm labor that presents a higher risk for recurrence.

History of a cesarean delivery. While a cesarean delivery can have implications for future pregnancies, such as an increased risk for placenta previa or uterine rupture, it does not directly increase the risk of preterm labor. The history of preterm labor itself is a more significant risk factor.

EXPLANATION

✔Correct answer:

Perform a vaginal exam every shift. Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) refers to the rupture of the amniotic sac before 37 weeks of gestation, which increases the risk of infection and preterm labor. Frequent vaginal exams should be avoided in patients with PPROM because they increase the risk of introducing infection, which can lead to chorioamnionitis (infection of the amniotic fluid, membranes, placenta, and/or uterus). Therefore, an order to perform a vaginal exam every shift should be questioned. Instead, vaginal exams should be limited and only performed when absolutely necessary, such as when assessing labor progression or when signs of labor or infection are present.

PPROM disrupts the protective barrier of the amniotic sac, leaving the fetus vulnerable to ascending infections from the vaginal canal. Minimizing vaginal examinations reduces the risk of introducing bacteria into the uterine cavity, thereby lowering the risk of infection, which could significantly complicate both maternal and fetal health.

Think of the amniotic sac as a sealed, sterile environment like a tightly closed jar. Once the jar is opened (the sac ruptures), you want to avoid repeatedly opening and closing it (vaginal exams), as this increases the chance of contamination (infection).

Nurse Julia should advocate for the patient’s safety by questioning the frequency of vaginal exams and suggesting alternative ways to monitor for signs of labor or infection. Close monitoring of maternal vital signs, including temperature and fetal heart rate, is critical in managing PPROM.

• Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever, foul-smelling discharge, or uterine tenderness, without relying on frequent vaginal exams.
• Limit vaginal exams to necessary assessments, such as when there are signs of labor or changes in the patient’s condition.
• Educate the patient on the importance of reporting any changes in symptoms, such as increased pain, discharge, or fever.
• Ensure strict hand hygiene and sterile technique when performing any necessary vaginal exams.

✘Incorrect answer options:

Monitor maternal temperature every 4 hours. Monitoring maternal temperature is essential in PPROM cases because an elevated temperature can be an early sign of infection. Frequent temperature checks help detect any potential infections promptly.

Continuous fetal heart rate monitoring. Continuous fetal heart rate monitoring is appropriate in PPROM cases to assess fetal well-being. Changes in the fetal heart rate pattern can indicate fetal distress, which may necessitate urgent medical intervention.

Ampicillin 1 gm IVPB q 6 hours. Administration of antibiotics like Ampicillin is standard practice in cases of PPROM to prevent infection. The antibiotics help reduce the risk of ascending infections, such as chorioamnionitis, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus.