Maternity Nursing: Intrapartum Q 10
A nurse in the delivery room is assisting with the delivery of a newborn infant. After the delivery of the newborn, the nurse assists in delivering the placenta. Which observation would indicate that the placenta has separated from the uterine wall and is ready for delivery?
A. The umbilical cord shortens in length and changes in color
B. A soft and boggy uterus
C. Maternal complaints of severe uterine cramping
D. Changes in the shape of the uterus
Correct Answer: D. Changes in the shape of the uterus
Signs of placental separation include lengthening of the umbilical cord, a sudden gush of dark blood from the introitus (vaginal), a firmly contracted uterus, and the uterus changing from a discoid (like a disk) to a globular (like a globe) shape. The client may experience vaginal fullness, but not severe uterine cramping.
Option A: The most reliable sign is the lengthening of the umbilical cord as the placenta separates and is pushed into the lower uterine segment by progressive uterine retraction. Placing a clamp on the cord near the perineum makes it easier to appreciate this lengthening. Never place traction on the cord without countertraction on the uterus above the symphysis; otherwise, one may mistake cord lengthening due to impending prolapse or inversion for that of uncomplicated placental separation.
Option B: The uterus takes on a more globular shape and becomes firmer. This occurs as the placenta descends into the lower segment and the body of the uterus continues to retract. This change may be clinically difficult to appreciate.
Option C: Following the delivery of the fetus, uterine contractions continue and the placenta is sheared from the underlying endometrium. This separation primarily occurs by a reduction in the surface area of the placental site as the uterus shrinks.