What is the initial nursing action when abruptio placenta is suspected?

• A. Notify the obstetrician and prepare for delivery.
• B. Place the patient in Trendelenburg position and observe.
• C. Administer analgesia and observe.
• D. Perform a digital vaginal examination.

Answer: (A)

When abruptio placenta is suspected, the most important first action is to notify the obstetrician and prepare for delivery. Placental abruption can progress rapidly and threaten both mother and fetus, so getting the medical team involved immediately allows rapid assessment, continuous fetal monitoring, and decisions about delivery if needed. Other options delay definitive care or can cause harm: positioning the patient in Trendelenburg isn’t helpful for this emergency, analgesia alone doesn’t address the potential for heavy bleeding and fetal distress, and performing a digital vaginal examination is typically contraindicated due to the risk of triggering more bleeding.