Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Severe abdominal pain and bleeding in the third trimester of pregnancy could indicate what condition?

1. Placenta previa

2. Abnormal placentation

3. Ectopic pregnancy

4. Abruptio placenta

The correct answer is: Abruptio placenta

Severe abdominal pain and bleeding during the third trimester of pregnancy can indicate abruptio placenta, a condition in which the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely. This separation can lead to significant maternal and fetal complications, including intense pain and hemorrhage. In the context of the third trimester, abruptio placenta is particularly concerning as it can result in fetal distress and is a leading cause of maternal mortality. In contrast, while placenta previa can cause bleeding in later stages of pregnancy, it typically presents differently, often without severe pain. Abnormal placentation refers to issues related to the implantation of the placenta but is less frequently associated with acute symptoms like severe pain and bleeding. Ectopic pregnancy, on the other hand, usually occurs outside the uterus and is more common in early pregnancy; it typically presents with different symptoms than those described here. Therefore, the combination of severe abdominal pain and bleeding in a third trimester patient aligns closely with the characteristics of abruptio placenta.