Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

Diagnosis
- Using ultrasonic scanning will confirm the existence of
placenta praevia and establish its degree.
- The colour of the blood is bright red, denoting fresh
bleeding.
Assesement
If the haemorrhage is slight the mothers blood pressue,
respiratory rate and pulse rate may be normal
In severe hemorrhage;
- The blood pressure will be low and the pulse rate raised
- Respirations is also rapid
- The mother’s skin colour will be pale and her skin will be
cold and moist
- Vaginal examination should not be attempted
Assessing the fetal condition
The mother should be asked whether fetal activity has been
normal.Excessive or cessation fetal movement is another
indication of sever fetal hypoxia.
Management of placenta praevia
The managements of placenta praevia depends on:
- the amount of bleeding
- the conditions of mother and fetus
- the stage of the pregnancy
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