Prophecy Emergency Department Registered Nurse (RN) Practice Test

In cases of suspected ectopic pregnancy, monitoring for signs of shock is a critical intervention. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. As the ectopic tissue grows, it can cause internal bleeding if it ruptures, leading to a potentially life-threatening situation.

Early signs of shock may include tachycardia, hypotension, and altered mental status, among others. These indicators are crucial as they help healthcare providers assess the severity of the patient's condition and the urgency of treatment required. Intervening promptly upon identifying signs of shock can be lifesaving, allowing for necessary measures such as fluid resuscitation and surgical intervention if needed.

In contrast, while providing antiemetic medication may be beneficial for managing nausea, it does not address the immediate life-threatening risks associated with ectopic pregnancy. Running a full panel of labs antepartum, though important for overall assessment, may not be the priority when a patient is in a potentially unstable condition. Similarly, arranging for discharge instructions would not be appropriate in a scenario where the patient may require urgent care and observation. Monitoring for shock is therefore the paramount concern to ensure the safety and stabilization of the patient.