NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which symptom is NOT typically associated with Abruptio Placentae?

1. Rigid uterus

2. Normal fetal heart tones

3. Absent fetal tones/bradycardia

4. Tender abdomen

The correct answer is: Normal fetal heart tones

The choice of "Normal fetal heart tones" is the correct answer because, in cases of Abruptio Placentae, the detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall can compromise blood flow and oxygen to the fetus. This often results in abnormal fetal heart tones, such as absent fetal heart tones or bradycardia, due to fetal distress caused by reduced perfusion. In contrast, a rigid uterus is often seen as the uterus may tense in response to underlying problems, while a tender abdomen can indicate pain from the condition. Absent fetal tones or bradycardia directly correlate with the compromised state of the fetus due to the separation of the placenta. Therefore, identifying that normal fetal heart tones are not typically associated with Abruptio Placentae is crucial for understanding this obstetric emergency.