Which should the nurse expect to assess in the third stage of labor that indicates the placenta has separated from the uterine wall? (Select all that apply.)
A) A gush of blood appears.
B) The uterus rises upward in the abdomen.
C) The fundus descends below the umbilicus.
D) The cord descends further from the vagina.
E) The uterus becomes boggy and soft, with an elongated shape.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Four signs suggest placenta separation. The uterus has a spherical shape. The uterus rises upward in the abdomen as the placenta descends into the vagina and pushes the fundus upward. The cord descends further from the vagina. A gush of blood appears as blood trapped behind the placenta is released. The fundus rises upward above the umbilicus. A boggy uterus with an elongated shape would not be expected.

Which Should the Nurse Expect to Assess in the Third