A female patient who is 36 weeks pregnant tripped in a parking lot, hitting her head and wrist, as well as her abdomen. She is alert and oriented and complains of a headache and abdominal and wrist pain. She denies shortness of breath and has an SpO₂ of 96% on room air. Assessment reveals a large abrasion and hematoma to her forehead and abdomen and deformity to her left wrist. Which one of the following interventions will best treat the injuries the baby may have suffered?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Administering high-concentration oxygen through a nonrebreather will help to ensure that the baby is receiving adequate oxygenation, which is crucial in mitigating potential hypoxic injury caused by trauma to the abdomen. Immobilization to a long spine board is not indicated in this scenario, as there is no indication of a spinal injury. Covering the abdominal abrasion may help to prevent infection but is not the priority intervention. Applying an ice pack to the wrist to decrease pain is an appropriate treatment for the wrist injury, but has no bearing on the potential harm caused to the baby.

A Female Patient Who Is 36 Weeks Pregnant Tripped in a Parking