A patient who sustained a difficult, lengthy labor and delivery is conversing with the nurse. Suddenly, the patient complains of chest pain and appears dyspneic. She is cyanotic and tachycardic, and her blood pressure has decreased to 78/36. What condition should the nurse suspect is developing?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms suggest the development of an amniotic fluid embolus, a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition in which amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris enter the maternal circulation, causing an allergic-like reaction that can lead to cardiovascular collapse, respiratory failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Placenta accreta is a condition in which the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall, potentially causing hemorrhage or difficulty delivering the placenta. Infection may present with fever, chills, or uterine tenderness, but is less likely to cause sudden onset of chest pain and dyspnea. Hypertensive crisis may cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and decreased blood pressure, but the patient's history suggests a more acute cause.

A Patient Who Sustained a Difficult, Lengthy Labor and Delivery