After delivery of a newborn in a placenta previa pregnancy, which risk should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Hemorrhage
• B. Hematoma
• C. Chronic hypertension
• D. Disseminated intravascular coagulation

Answer: (A)

Heavy postpartum hemorrhage is the primary risk after delivery in a placenta previa pregnancy. The placenta in the lower uterine segment can separate poorly or incompletely after birth, and the uterus may not contract effectively at the placental site, leading to significant bleeding. Because of this, the nurse closely watches for sudden or heavy vaginal bleeding, a soft (boggy) uterus, rising heart rate, falling blood pressure, and signs of blood loss. Prompt use of uterotonic medications, fluid resuscitation, and readiness for blood transfusion may be needed if hemorrhage occurs. Hematoma, chronic hypertension, and DIC are not the immediate postpartum risk specifically tied to placenta previa in this scenario, though massive bleeding can lead to DIC if it occurs.