A 27-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 2, at 41 weeks' gestation is admitted to the hospital in active labor. Her pregnancy has been uncomplicated. Both of her prior children were delivered by vaginal birth. She has a history of asthma. Current medications include iron and vitamin supplements. After a prolonged labor, she undergoes vaginal delivery. Shortly afterwards, she begins to have heavy vaginal bleeding with clots. Her temperature is 37.2°C (98.9°F), pulse is 90/min, respirations are 17/min, and blood pressure is 130/72 mm Hg. Examination shows a soft, enlarged, and boggy uterus on palpation. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 10.8 g/dL
Hematocrit 32.3%
Leukocyte Count 9,000/mm3
Platelet Count 140,000/mm3
Prothrombin time 14 seconds
Partial thromboplastin time 38 seconds
Her bleeding continues despite bimanual uterine massage and administration of oxytocin. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
Q2
A 24-year-old primigravida presents at 36 weeks gestation with vaginal bleeding, mild abdominal pain, and uterine contractions that appeared after bumping into a handrail. The vital signs are as follows: blood pressure 130/80 mm Hg, heart rate 79/min, respiratory rate 12/min, and temperature 36.5℃ (97.7℉). The fetal heart rate was 145/min. Uterine fundus is at the level of the xiphoid process. Slight uterine tenderness and contractions are noted on palpation. The perineum is bloody. The gynecologic examination shows no vaginal or cervical lesions. The cervix is long and closed. Streaks of bright red blood are passing through the cervix. A transabdominal ultrasound shows the placenta to be attached to the lateral uterine wall with a marginal retroplacental hematoma (an approximate volume of 150 ml). The maternal hematocrit is 36%. What is the next best step in the management of this patient?
Q3
A 24-year-old woman, gravida 1, at 35 weeks gestation is admitted to the hospital with regular contractions and pelvic pressure for the last 5 hours. Her pregnancy has been uncomplicated and she has attended many prenatal appointments and followed the physician's advice about screening for diseases, laboratory testing, diet, and exercise. She has had no history of fluid leakage or bleeding. At the hospital, her temperature is 37.2°C (99.0°F), blood pressure is 108/60 mm Hg, pulse is 88/min, and respirations are 16/min. Cervical examination shows 60% effacement and 5 cm dilation with intact membranes. Cardiotocography shows a contraction amplitude of 220 MVU in 10 minutes. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy at this time?
Q4
A 34-year-old G5P5 woman gave birth to a healthy infant 30 minutes ago by vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery and is now experiencing vaginal bleeding. The placenta was delivered spontaneously and was intact upon examination. The infant weighed 5.2 kg and had Apgar scores of 8 and 9. No perineal tear or intentional episiotomy occurred. The patient has type 1 diabetes. She had good glycemic control throughout her pregnancy. She took a prenatal vitamin daily. Blood pressure is 135/72 mmHg, pulse is 102/min, and respirations are 18/min. Upon physical examination, the uterine fundus is soft and palpated 4 cm above the umbilicus. There are 3-cm blood clots on the patient’s bed pad. Which of the following is the next best step in management for the patient’s bleeding?
Q5
A 25-year-old G2P1001 at 32 weeks gestation presents to the hospital with painless vaginal bleeding. The patient states that she was taking care of laundry at home when she experienced a sudden sensation of her water breaking and saw that her groin was covered in blood. Her prenatal history is unremarkable according to the clinic records, but she has not seen an obstetrician for the past 14 weeks. Her previous delivery was by urgent cesarean section for placenta previa. Her temperature is 95°F (35°C), blood pressure is 125/75 mmHg, pulse is 79/min, respirations are 18/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Cervical exam shows gross blood in the vaginal os. The fetal head is not palpable. Fetal heart rate monitoring demonstrates decelerations and bradycardia. Labs are pending. IV fluids are started. What is the best next step in management?
Q6
A 37-year-old woman presents to the clinic to discuss various options for contraception. The patient has a past medical history of hypertension, Wilson's disease, and constipation-dominant irritable bowel syndrome. The patient takes rivaroxaban and polyethylene glycol. The blood pressure is 152/98 mm Hg. On physical examination, the patient appears alert and oriented. The heart auscultation demonstrates regular rate and rhythm, and it is absent of murmurs. The lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally without wheezing. The first day of the last menstrual period was 12 days ago. The urine hCG is negative. Given the patient's history and physical examination, which of the following forms of contraception is the most appropriate?
Q7
A 36-year-old primigravid woman at 34 weeks' gestation comes to the physician because of a 1-week history of upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, and malaise. She had a mild upper respiratory tract infection a week ago. She has a 10-year history of polycystic ovarian syndrome and a 3-year history of hypertension. Her medications include metformin, labetalol, folic acid, and a multivitamin. Her pulse is 92/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 147/84 mm Hg. Examination shows a nontender uterus consistent in size with a 34-week gestation. There is mild tenderness of the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. The fetal heart rate is reactive with no decelerations. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
Q8
A 26-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 1, at 28 weeks' gestation comes to the physician for a prenatal visit. She feels well. Pregnancy and delivery of her first child were uncomplicated. Her temperature is 37.2°C (99°F) and blood pressure is 163/105 mm Hg. Her blood pressure 10 weeks ago was 128/84 mm Hg. At her last visit two weeks ago, her blood pressure was 142/92 mm Hg. Pelvic examination shows a uterus consistent in size with a 28-week gestation. A complete blood count and serum concentrations of electrolytes, creatinine, and hepatic transaminases are within the reference range. A urinalysis is within normal limits. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
Q9
A 26-year-old primigravida presents to her physician’s office at 35 weeks gestation with new onset lower leg edema. The course of her pregnancy was uneventful up to the time of presentation and she has been compliant with the recommended prenatal care. She reports a 4 pack-year history of smoking prior to her pregnancy. She also used oral contraceptives for birth control before considering the pregnancy. Prior to pregnancy, she weighed 52 kg (114.6 lb). She gained 11 kg (24.3 lb) during the pregnancy thus far, and 2 kg (4.4 lb) during the last 2 weeks. Her height is 169 cm (5 ft 7 in). She has a family history of hypertension in her mother (diagnosed at 46 years of age) and aunt (diagnosed at 51 years of age). The blood pressure is 145/90 mm Hg, the heart rate is 91/min, the respiratory rate is 15/min, and the temperature is 36.6℃ (97.9℉). The blood pressure is unchanged 15 minutes and 4 hours after the initial measurement. The fetal heart rate is 144/min. The examination is remarkable for 2+ pitting lower leg edema. The neurologic examination shows no focality. A urine dipstick test shows 2+ proteinuria. Which of the following factors is a risk factor for her condition?
Q10
A pregnant woman with a known case of asthma is experiencing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Which drug is contraindicated?
Medical management of PPH US Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 1: A 27-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 2, at 41 weeks' gestation is admitted to the hospital in active labor. Her pregnancy has been uncomplicated. Both of her prior children were delivered by vaginal birth. She has a history of asthma. Current medications include iron and vitamin supplements. After a prolonged labor, she undergoes vaginal delivery. Shortly afterwards, she begins to have heavy vaginal bleeding with clots. Her temperature is 37.2°C (98.9°F), pulse is 90/min, respirations are 17/min, and blood pressure is 130/72 mm Hg. Examination shows a soft, enlarged, and boggy uterus on palpation. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 10.8 g/dL
Hematocrit 32.3%
Leukocyte Count 9,000/mm3
Platelet Count 140,000/mm3
Prothrombin time 14 seconds
Partial thromboplastin time 38 seconds
Her bleeding continues despite bimanual uterine massage and administration of oxytocin. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Administer methylergonovine (Correct Answer)
B. Transfuse blood
C. Perform hysterectomy
D. Administer carboprost tromethamine
E. Perform curettage
Explanation: ***Administer methylergonovine***
- The patient is likely experiencing **postpartum hemorrhage (PPH)** due to **uterine atony**, characterized by a soft, enlarged, and boggy uterus after delivery, with continued bleeding despite initial measures (massage, oxytocin).
- Given her history of **asthma**, carboprost tromethamine (prostaglandin F2-alpha) is **contraindicated** due to its potential to cause severe bronchospasm, making methylergonovine (an ergot alkaloid) the appropriate next uterotonic agent.
*Transfuse blood*
- While blood transfusions may eventually be necessary if bleeding is severe and leads to significant hemodynamic instability or severe anemia, it is **not the immediate next step** in managing the underlying cause of the hemorrhage (uterine atony).
- **Uterotonic agents** should be tried first to contract the uterus and stop the bleeding, as indicated by the patient's current vital signs being relatively stable (pulse 90/min, BP 130/72 mm Hg).
*Perform hysterectomy*
- **Hysterectomy** is a drastic measure considered only after all less invasive medical and surgical interventions (e.g., uterotonic agents, uterine tamponade, suturing techniques) have failed to control severe PPH.
- It would be **premature** to proceed directly to hysterectomy without attempting additional medical management for uterine atony.
*Administer carboprost tromethamine*
- **Carboprost tromethamine** is a prostaglandin analog that is effective in treating uterine atony but is **contraindicated in patients with asthma** due to its known side effect of inducing bronchospasm.
- The patient's history of asthma makes this a **dangerous option**, and an alternative uterotonic like methylergonovine should be chosen.
*Perform curettage*
- **Curettage** (removing retained placental fragments) would be appropriate if the cause of PPH was **retained placental tissue**.
- However, the examination finding of a **soft, enlarged, and boggy uterus** is characteristic of uterine atony, not retained placenta, and the initial management of atony involves uterotonic agents.
Question 2: A 24-year-old primigravida presents at 36 weeks gestation with vaginal bleeding, mild abdominal pain, and uterine contractions that appeared after bumping into a handrail. The vital signs are as follows: blood pressure 130/80 mm Hg, heart rate 79/min, respiratory rate 12/min, and temperature 36.5℃ (97.7℉). The fetal heart rate was 145/min. Uterine fundus is at the level of the xiphoid process. Slight uterine tenderness and contractions are noted on palpation. The perineum is bloody. The gynecologic examination shows no vaginal or cervical lesions. The cervix is long and closed. Streaks of bright red blood are passing through the cervix. A transabdominal ultrasound shows the placenta to be attached to the lateral uterine wall with a marginal retroplacental hematoma (an approximate volume of 150 ml). The maternal hematocrit is 36%. What is the next best step in the management of this patient?
A. Manage as an outpatient with modified rest
B. Induction of vaginal labor
C. Corticosteroid administration and schedule a cesarean section after
D. Admit for maternal and fetal monitoring and observation (Correct Answer)
E. Urgent cesarean delivery
Explanation: ***Admit for maternal and fetal monitoring and observation***
- This patient presents with signs of a **mild placental abruption** (vaginal bleeding, contractions, mild abdominal pain, retroplacental hematoma) after trauma, but her **vital signs are stable**, fetal heart rate is reassuring, and the abruption volume is relatively small.
- Expectant management with **close monitoring** for signs of worsening abruption (increasing pain, vital sign changes, fetal distress) is appropriate for a patient at 36 weeks with a non-catastrophic abruption.
*Manage as an outpatient with modified rest*
- Given the presence of **vaginal bleeding, contractions**, and a **retroplacental hematoma** suggesting placental abruption, outpatient management is not safe.
- There is a risk of the abruption progressing, requiring immediate medical intervention, making **hospital admission for close monitoring** essential.
*Induction of vaginal labor*
- While vaginal delivery might be considered for a stable abruption in some cases, **active induction is not the immediate next step** given the patient's stable status and the need for continuous monitoring.
- The **cervix is long and closed**, indicating that she is not in active labor and immediate induction might not be successful or necessary.
*Corticosteroid administration and schedule a cesarean section after*
- **Corticosteroids** are typically administered for fetal lung maturity when delivery is anticipated before **34 weeks of gestation**; at 36 weeks, this is generally not indicated.
- A scheduled cesarean section is premature as the patient is **stable**, and the immediate goal is to monitor for progression or resolution of the abruption, not immediate delivery.
*Urgent cesarean delivery*
- There are no signs of **maternal or fetal distress** (stable vitals, reassuring fetal heart rate) that would necessitate an urgent cesarean delivery.
- An urgent cesarean is reserved for cases of **severe abruption** with significant bleeding, hemodynamic instability, or fetal compromise.
Question 3: A 24-year-old woman, gravida 1, at 35 weeks gestation is admitted to the hospital with regular contractions and pelvic pressure for the last 5 hours. Her pregnancy has been uncomplicated and she has attended many prenatal appointments and followed the physician's advice about screening for diseases, laboratory testing, diet, and exercise. She has had no history of fluid leakage or bleeding. At the hospital, her temperature is 37.2°C (99.0°F), blood pressure is 108/60 mm Hg, pulse is 88/min, and respirations are 16/min. Cervical examination shows 60% effacement and 5 cm dilation with intact membranes. Cardiotocography shows a contraction amplitude of 220 MVU in 10 minutes. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy at this time?
A. Magnesium sulfate
B. No pharmacotherapy at this time (Correct Answer)
C. Dexamethasone
D. Oxytocin
E. Terbutaline
Explanation: ***No pharmacotherapy at this time***
- The patient is at **35 weeks gestation** and in **active labor** (5 cm dilated, 60% effacement, regular contractions with adequate Montevideo units). At this gestational age, labor is typically allowed to progress without intervention unless there are complications.
- Pharmacotherapy to stop labor (tocolysis) or induce fetal lung maturity (corticosteroids) is generally not indicated at or beyond 34 weeks gestation in uncomplicated cases.
*Magnesium sulfate*
- This is primarily used for **fetal neuroprotection** in anticipated preterm birth before 32 weeks gestation, or as a **tocolytic** to inhibit contractions, neither of which is indicated here.
- The patient is 35 weeks, beyond the typical window for neuroprotection, and stopping labor is not appropriate given her advanced dilation and gestational age.
*Dexamethasone*
- **Corticosteroids** like dexamethasone are administered to accelerate **fetal lung maturity** in cases of anticipated preterm birth, typically between 24 and 34 weeks gestation.
- At 35 weeks, the benefits of corticosteroids for lung maturity are minimal and generally not recommended.
*Oxytocin*
- **Oxytocin** is used to **induce or augment labor** if contractions are inadequate or to prevent **postpartum hemorrhage**.
- This patient is already in active, effective labor with adequate contractions (220 MVU in 10 minutes), so oxytocin for augmentation is not needed.
*Terbutaline*
- **Terbutaline** is a **beta-agonist tocolytic** used to relax the uterus and stop preterm labor.
- Given the patient's gestational age of 35 weeks and the progression of her labor (5 cm dilated), stopping contractions is not the appropriate management.
Question 4: A 34-year-old G5P5 woman gave birth to a healthy infant 30 minutes ago by vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery and is now experiencing vaginal bleeding. The placenta was delivered spontaneously and was intact upon examination. The infant weighed 5.2 kg and had Apgar scores of 8 and 9. No perineal tear or intentional episiotomy occurred. The patient has type 1 diabetes. She had good glycemic control throughout her pregnancy. She took a prenatal vitamin daily. Blood pressure is 135/72 mmHg, pulse is 102/min, and respirations are 18/min. Upon physical examination, the uterine fundus is soft and palpated 4 cm above the umbilicus. There are 3-cm blood clots on the patient’s bed pad. Which of the following is the next best step in management for the patient’s bleeding?
A. Administer misoprostol
B. Manually remove retained placental fragments
C. Perform uterine massage and administer oxytocin (Correct Answer)
D. Perform uterine artery embolization
E. Perform hysterectomy
Explanation: ***Perform uterine massage and administer oxytocin***
- The patient's presentation of a **soft, boggy uterus** palpated 4 cm above the umbilicus after delivery, along with significant vaginal bleeding and clots, is highly indicative of **uterine atony**.
- **Uterine massage** and administration of **oxytocin** are the first-line interventions to stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding by compressing placental site blood vessels.
*Administer misoprostol*
- **Misoprostol** is a prostaglandin analog that can be used for uterine atony when oxytocin is insufficient or contraindicated, but it is not the *first-line* treatment.
- Its onset of action may be slower than immediate uterine massage and IV oxytocin, which are preferred for initial management of acute uterine atony.
*Manually remove retained placental fragments*
- The question states that the **placenta was delivered spontaneously and was intact upon examination**, which makes retained placental fragments less likely as the primary cause of bleeding.
- While retained fragments can cause postpartum hemorrhage, the boggy uterus points more strongly to atony, and manual removal is indicated *after* confirming retained placental tissue.
*Perform uterine artery embolization*
- **Uterine artery embolization** is an interventional radiology procedure typically reserved for cases of postpartum hemorrhage that are refractory to conventional medical and surgical management.
- It is an invasive procedure and not the appropriate *next best step* for initial management of suspected uterine atony.
*Perform hysterectomy*
- **Hysterectomy** is a last-resort, life-saving measure for intractable postpartum hemorrhage when all other medical and surgical options have failed.
- It is a highly invasive and irreversible procedure, certainly not the *next best step* in a patient who has just begun to bleed.
Question 5: A 25-year-old G2P1001 at 32 weeks gestation presents to the hospital with painless vaginal bleeding. The patient states that she was taking care of laundry at home when she experienced a sudden sensation of her water breaking and saw that her groin was covered in blood. Her prenatal history is unremarkable according to the clinic records, but she has not seen an obstetrician for the past 14 weeks. Her previous delivery was by urgent cesarean section for placenta previa. Her temperature is 95°F (35°C), blood pressure is 125/75 mmHg, pulse is 79/min, respirations are 18/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Cervical exam shows gross blood in the vaginal os. The fetal head is not palpable. Fetal heart rate monitoring demonstrates decelerations and bradycardia. Labs are pending. IV fluids are started. What is the best next step in management?
A. Cesarean section (Correct Answer)
B. Betamethasone
C. Red blood cell transfusion
D. Vaginal delivery
E. Lumbar epidural block
Explanation: ***Cesarean section***
- This patient presents with signs highly suggestive of **placenta previa with possible vasa previa or placental abruption**, with life-threatening complications for both mother and fetus. The presence of **painless vaginal bleeding**, a prior **cesarean section for placenta previa**, and **fetal heart rate decelerations/bradycardia** necessitate immediate delivery via cesarean section to prevent **fetal demise** and severe **maternal hemorrhage**.
- The rapid deterioration of the fetal status, indicated by **decelerations and bradycardia**, confirms the urgency. A **cesarean section** is the quickest and safest way to deliver the baby and address the underlying obstetric emergency.
*Betamethasone*
- **Betamethasone** is administered to promote **fetal lung maturity** in cases of preterm delivery. While this patient is preterm at 32 weeks, the critical nature of the fetal distress and bleeding requires immediate delivery, making the delay for betamethasone administration inappropriate.
- The benefits of steroids for lung maturity are outweighed by the **immediate risk of fetal demise** and severe maternal complications if delivery is delayed.
*Red blood cell transfusion*
- While the patient is actively bleeding and may eventually require a **blood transfusion**, starting IV fluids and proceeding with an **immediate cesarean section** are higher priorities to stabilize the mother and rescue the fetus.
- Transfusions are supportive measures once the source of hemorrhage is addressed and vital signs are stabilized during or after surgery.
*Vaginal delivery*
- Given the patient's history of **placenta previa**, current **painless vaginal bleeding**, and signs of **fetal distress**, a vaginal delivery is contraindicated due to the high risk of **exsanguinating hemorrhage** for the mother and severe fetal compromise.
- The prior **cesarean section for placenta previa** also increases the risk of recurrent previa and **placenta accreta spectrum**, further contraindicating vaginal delivery.
*Lumbar epidural block*
- A **lumbar epidural block** is used for pain management during labor, but in this emergent situation with active bleeding and fetal distress, immediate delivery is paramount.
- The time required to safely administer an **epidural**, along with the potential for **hypotension** in a hypovolemic patient, makes it an inappropriate next step.
Question 6: A 37-year-old woman presents to the clinic to discuss various options for contraception. The patient has a past medical history of hypertension, Wilson's disease, and constipation-dominant irritable bowel syndrome. The patient takes rivaroxaban and polyethylene glycol. The blood pressure is 152/98 mm Hg. On physical examination, the patient appears alert and oriented. The heart auscultation demonstrates regular rate and rhythm, and it is absent of murmurs. The lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally without wheezing. The first day of the last menstrual period was 12 days ago. The urine hCG is negative. Given the patient's history and physical examination, which of the following forms of contraception is the most appropriate?
A. Levonorgestrel (Correct Answer)
B. levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol
C. Depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate
D. Ethinyl estradiol
E. Copper IUD
Explanation: ***Levonorgestrel***
- This patient has **hypertension** that is not well-controlled given her blood pressure of 152/98 mm Hg, as well as a history of **rivaroxaban** use, indicating a risk for **thromboembolic events.**
- **Progestin-only** contraception, such as a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) or implant, is generally considered safe and effective in patients with these risk factors because it avoids the estrogenic effects associated with increased risk of **thrombosis** and worsening hypertension.
*Levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol*
- This is a **combined hormonal contraceptive** containing both estrogen and progestin.
- The **estrogen component** significantly increases the risk of **thromboembolic events**, which is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypertension and those on anticoagulants like rivaroxaban.
*Depot-medroroxyprogesterone acetate*
- While it is a **progestin-only method** and does not carry the same thromboembolic risks as estrogen, it has been associated with **bone density loss** with long-term use.
- Given the patient's existing medical conditions and the availability of other equally effective progestin-only options without this side effect profile, it may not be the most appropriate first-line choice.
*Ethinyl estradiol*
- This is a form of **estrogen** and would be used in a combined hormonal contraceptive.
- As discussed, the **estrogen component** significantly increases the risk of **thromboembolic events**, which is contraindicated in this patient due to her hypertension and rivaroxaban use.
*Copper IUD*
- The copper IUD is a **non-hormonal** option, making it safe for patients with cardiovascular risk factors or those on anticoagulants.
- However, for patients with **constipation-dominant IBS**, there is a theoretical concern that the insertion and presence of an IUD could exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, though this is not a strong contraindication compared to the risks associated with estrogen.
Question 7: A 36-year-old primigravid woman at 34 weeks' gestation comes to the physician because of a 1-week history of upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, and malaise. She had a mild upper respiratory tract infection a week ago. She has a 10-year history of polycystic ovarian syndrome and a 3-year history of hypertension. Her medications include metformin, labetalol, folic acid, and a multivitamin. Her pulse is 92/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 147/84 mm Hg. Examination shows a nontender uterus consistent in size with a 34-week gestation. There is mild tenderness of the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. The fetal heart rate is reactive with no decelerations. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Reassurance and follow-up
B. Serum transaminase levels and platelet count (Correct Answer)
C. Serum bile acid levels
D. HBsAg and IgM anti-HBc serology
E. Stool antigen assay for H. pylori
Explanation: ***Serum transaminase levels and platelet count***
- The patient presents with symptoms such as **upper abdominal discomfort**, nausea, malaise, and **mild right upper quadrant tenderness**, along with a history of **hypertension** in pregnancy, raising concern for **preeclampsia with severe features** or **HELLP syndrome**.
- **Elevated liver transaminases** and **thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)** are hallmarks of HELLP syndrome, which requires urgent evaluation and management.
*Reassurance and follow-up*
- Given the concerning symptoms and risk factors, simply reassuring the patient without further investigation would be **inappropriate** and could lead to delayed diagnosis and potential harm.
- The symptoms described are not typical minor complaints of pregnancy and warrant a prompt workup.
*Serum bile acid levels*
- Elevated serum bile acid levels are primarily indicative of **intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP)**, which typically presents with **pruritus** (itching), especially on the palms and soles, without significant right upper quadrant pain or other systemic symptoms seen here.
- While ICP can cause some abdominal discomfort, the constellation of symptoms in this patient points more strongly towards preeclampsia/HELLP.
*HBsAg and IgM anti-HBc serology*
- These tests are used to diagnose **Hepatitis B infection**. While hepatitis could cause similar symptoms like nausea and abdominal discomfort, there is no specific risk factor or clinical sign (e.g., jaundice, dark urine) in this patient to prioritize hepatitis screening as the immediate next step over evaluating for preeclampsia/HELLP.
- The symptoms are more consistent with pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders.
*Stool antigen assay for H. pylori*
- This assay is used to diagnose **Helicobacter pylori infection**, which can cause gastritis or peptic ulcer disease.
- While H. pylori can cause upper abdominal discomfort and nausea, the patient's existing hypertension, late-stage pregnancy, and lack of symptoms specific to gastritis (e.g., burning pain, response to antacids) make preeclampsia/HELLP a more pressing concern.
Question 8: A 26-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 1, at 28 weeks' gestation comes to the physician for a prenatal visit. She feels well. Pregnancy and delivery of her first child were uncomplicated. Her temperature is 37.2°C (99°F) and blood pressure is 163/105 mm Hg. Her blood pressure 10 weeks ago was 128/84 mm Hg. At her last visit two weeks ago, her blood pressure was 142/92 mm Hg. Pelvic examination shows a uterus consistent in size with a 28-week gestation. A complete blood count and serum concentrations of electrolytes, creatinine, and hepatic transaminases are within the reference range. A urinalysis is within normal limits. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Oral labetalol therapy (Correct Answer)
B. Lisinopril therapy
C. Magnesium sulfate therapy
D. Complete bed rest
E. Dietary salt restriction
Explanation: **Oral labetalol therapy**
- The patient has developed **gestational hypertension** (blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg on two occasions at least 4 hours apart after 20 weeks gestation, without proteinuria or other signs of preeclampsia), with her current BP of 163/105 mmHg confirming **severe range hypertension** (systolic ≥160 mmHg or diastolic ≥110 mmHg).
- **Labetalol** is a first-line agent for managing hypertension in pregnancy due to its established safety profile and efficacy in lowering blood pressure.
*Lisinopril therapy*
- **Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors** like lisinopril are **contraindicated in pregnancy** as they can cause fetal renal dysfunction, oligohydramnios, and neonatal hypotension.
- This medication choice would be harmful to the fetus.
*Magnesium sulfate therapy*
- **Magnesium sulfate** is indicated for the **prevention and treatment of seizures in preeclampsia/eclampsia**, not for blood pressure control itself.
- While the patient has hypertension, there are no signs of preeclampsia (e.g., proteinuria, signs of end-organ damage), making magnesium sulfate inappropriate at this stage.
*Complete bed rest*
- **Complete bed rest** is no longer recommended for the management of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, as studies have shown it does not improve maternal or fetal outcomes and can increase the risk of **thromboembolism**.
- It can also negatively impact a patient's quality of life without providing therapeutic benefit.
*Dietary salt restriction*
- While generally recommended for hypertension outside of pregnancy, **severe salt restriction** in pregnancy is **not typically recommended** for gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, as it has not been shown to improve outcomes and could potentially worsen maternal fluid balance.
- The primary management for severe range gestational hypertension involves antihypertensive medications.
Question 9: A 26-year-old primigravida presents to her physician’s office at 35 weeks gestation with new onset lower leg edema. The course of her pregnancy was uneventful up to the time of presentation and she has been compliant with the recommended prenatal care. She reports a 4 pack-year history of smoking prior to her pregnancy. She also used oral contraceptives for birth control before considering the pregnancy. Prior to pregnancy, she weighed 52 kg (114.6 lb). She gained 11 kg (24.3 lb) during the pregnancy thus far, and 2 kg (4.4 lb) during the last 2 weeks. Her height is 169 cm (5 ft 7 in). She has a family history of hypertension in her mother (diagnosed at 46 years of age) and aunt (diagnosed at 51 years of age). The blood pressure is 145/90 mm Hg, the heart rate is 91/min, the respiratory rate is 15/min, and the temperature is 36.6℃ (97.9℉). The blood pressure is unchanged 15 minutes and 4 hours after the initial measurement. The fetal heart rate is 144/min. The examination is remarkable for 2+ pitting lower leg edema. The neurologic examination shows no focality. A urine dipstick test shows 2+ proteinuria. Which of the following factors is a risk factor for her condition?
A. Primigravida (Correct Answer)
B. Oral contraceptives intake
C. BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 prior to pregnancy
D. Smoking prior to pregnancy
E. Family history of hypertension
Explanation: *Primigravida*
- **Nulliparity** (being a primigravida) is a significant risk factor for **preeclampsia**, the condition described by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation.
- The risk of **preeclampsia** is typically highest in women experiencing their first pregnancy.
*Oral contraceptives intake*
- Past use of **oral contraceptives** is not associated with an increased risk of developing **preeclampsia**.
- Some studies suggest that prior use of combined oral contraceptives might even be associated with a *reduced* risk of preeclampsia, though this is not a consistent finding.
*BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 prior to pregnancy*
- This patient's pre-pregnancy BMI is 18.2 kg/m², indicating she was **underweight** (BMI < 18.5 kg/m²).
- **Underweight** status prior to pregnancy is generally *not* considered a risk factor for preeclampsia; rather, **obesity** (BMI > 30 kg/m²) is a known risk factor.
*Smoking prior to pregnancy*
- Smoking is generally harmful during pregnancy, but surprisingly, current **smoking** has been associated with a *reduced* risk of preeclampsia.
- While the patient has a history of smoking, it was prior to pregnancy and she is not currently smoking, and even active smoking is protective rather than a risk factor for preeclampsia.
*Family history of hypertension*
- While a family history of **essential hypertension** (chronic hypertension) is present (mother at 46, aunt at 51), it is *not* a direct risk factor for **preeclampsia**.
- The main genetic risk factor for preeclampsia is a family history of preeclampsia itself, not general hypertension.
Question 10: A pregnant woman with a known case of asthma is experiencing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Which drug is contraindicated?
A. Methyl ergometrine
B. Carboprost (Correct Answer)
C. Misoprostol
D. Oxytocin
Explanation: ***Carboprost***
- **Carboprost** is a **prostaglandin F2-alpha analog** that causes strong uterine contractions but also leads to **bronchoconstriction** and increased airway resistance.
- Due to its potent bronchoconstrictive effects, **carboprost** is **absolutely contraindicated in patients with asthma** as it can precipitate a severe asthmatic attack.
*Methyl ergometrine*
- **Methyl ergometrine** is an **ergot alkaloid** that causes sustained uterine contractions and is effective for PPH.
- It is contraindicated in patients with **hypertension** or **pre-eclampsia** due to its vasoconstrictive properties, but not typically in asthma.
*Misoprostol*
- **Misoprostol** is a **prostaglandin E1 analog** used for PPH management, causing uterine contractions.
- It is generally safe for use in patients with asthma as it does not have significant bronchoconstrictive side effects.
*Oxytocin*
- **Oxytocin** is a first-line uterotonic agent for PPH, working by causing rhythmic uterine contractions.
- It is generally considered safe in patients with asthma and is not known to exacerbate respiratory conditions.
Want unlimited practice?
Get full access to all questions, explanations, and performance tracking.