Ectopic pregnancy Flashcards
what is an ectopic pregnancy?
a gestation outside of the uterus
where does it usually occur?
the fallopian tubes
how is it confirmed?
with an ultrasound
what is the first sign of an ectopic pregnancy?
pain
T or F?
this patient will not exhibit the usual signs of pregnancy.
F!
what causes this patient pain?
they may be bleeding or spotting into the peritoneum (blood may come out too)
T OR F?
if a patient has had an ectopic pregnancy, it is unlikely she will have another.
F! she has increased risk for having another
why would methotrexate be given to mommy?
to stop the growth of the embryo to save the tube
what will be done if the methotrexate doesn’t work?
a laparoscopy may be done.
what is a laparoscopy?
when the doc makes a small incision in the fallopian tube and manually remove the embryo in order to save the tube.
can the entire tube be removed?
yes
what is a laparotomy? why would it need to be done?
laparotomy AKA abdominal exploration
- if the tube has ruptured, or this patient has an advanced ectopic pregnancy.
what could happen if the fallopian tube ruptures?
- hemorrhage and may need a blood transfusion
