When assessing a multiparous woman who has just given birth to an 8-pound boy,the nurse notes that the woman's fundus is firm and has become globular in shape.A gush of dark red blood comes from her vagina.What is the nurse's assessment of the situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A firm, globular uterus with a gush of dark red blood suggests that the placenta has separated and has been expelled, which is a normal and expected event after birth. This is not necessarily an indication of hemorrhage. A cervical tear would likely present with different signs and symptoms, and clots in the upper uterine segment would not cause a gush of blood.

When Assessing a Multiparous Woman Who Has Just Given Birth