REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS Flashcards
Understand ectopic pregnancy and testicular torsion.
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
The implantation of a fertilized ovum outside of the uterus.
Usually in the fallopian tubes.
Why is an ectopic pregnancy life threatening?
It can cause major bleeding especially during tube rupture.
What are the typical manifestations of ectopic pregnancy?
Abdominal, pelvic pain! Lower abdomen on one side usually.
Missed periods.
Irregular vaginal bleeding.
Urge to have a bowel movement or urinate.
What are the complications of ectopic pregnancy?
Ruptured fallopian tube.
Hypovolemic shock from excessive bleeding.
How is ectopic pregnancy treated?
As the nurse, what should you do?
Surgery to remove egg + tube possibly.
Methotrexate which stops egg developement.
Monitor vital signs closely + provide emotional support.
What is testicular torsion?
The twisting of the spermatic cord…
restricts blood flow to testes.
Who is testicular torsion seen in most commonly?
Males under 20 years of age.
What are the manifestations of testicular torsion?
Sudden & severe scrotum pain.
Lower abdomen pain on affected side.
Edema & redness.
Raised testes.
Nausea / vomitting from pain.
What is Prehn’s sign?
What does it indicate?
P for penis/pelvic area pain
When lifting the scrotum, the pain does not decrease.
Sign of testicular torsion.
What are the complications of testicular torsion?
Damage / destroyed spermatogenesis (2-6 hours)
Endocrine function (8+ hours)
Testicular necrosis / **nonviable testes **(10-12 hours)
May require removal of testes
How is testicular torsion treated?
Manual or surgical detorsion.
Within 6 hours of symptom onset for best outcome.
