ITLS In Pregnancy 2

Question 1

When performing CPR on a pregnant patient in cardiac arrest, what modification is most critical?

Accepted Answer

Manually displace the uterus to the left

Answer

Manual left uterine displacement relieves aortocaval compression and improves cardiac output during CPR.

Question 2

At approximately what gestational age does the fundus reach the umbilicus?

Accepted Answer

20 weeks

Answer

The fundal height in centimeters approximates gestational age in weeks, reaching the umbilicus at roughly 20 weeks.

Question 3

Which breathing change is normal in pregnancy that may mimic respiratory distress?

Accepted Answer

Hyperventilation with reduced PaCO2

Answer

Progesterone-driven hyperventilation lowers maternal PaCO2 to 28–32 mmHg, which is normal in pregnancy.

Question 4

A term pregnant patient is involved in a motor vehicle crash. She has no abdominal pain but vaginal bleeding is present. What condition should be highest on the differential?

Accepted Answer

Abruptio placentae

Answer

Abruptio placentae (placental abruption) is the most common serious obstetric complication following blunt abdominal trauma.

Question 5

In a trauma patient at 36 weeks gestation, which finding best indicates significant hemorrhage despite vital signs appearing normal?

Accepted Answer

Fetal heart rate of 170 bpm

Answer

Fetal tachycardia (>160 bpm) can be an early indicator of maternal hypovolemia even before maternal vital signs deteriorate.

ITLS - International Trauma Life Support Practice Test

ITLS - International Trauma Life Support Practice Test

ITLS In Pregnancy 2