Relias Nursing Care of Patient with Obstetric (OB) & Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) Assessment Practice Test 2025 - Free Nursing Care Practice Questions and Study Guide

The assessment finding of lack of uterine contraction coupled with continued heavy vaginal bleeding is a key indicator of retained placenta in the postpartum period. After delivery, the uterus should contract effectively to expel the remaining placental tissue. When a portion of the placenta is retained, the uterus is unable to contract fully, leading to prolonged or heavy vaginal bleeding. This indicates that the uterus may not be able to adequately control bleeding, increasing the risk for postpartum hemorrhage.

This scenario often results in significant blood loss, and the absence of firm uterine contraction is a critical sign that further evaluation and intervention are necessary to prevent complications. Other assessment findings related to retained placenta, such as increased pain or abnormal vital signs, may also be observed, but the combination of heavy bleeding with lack of uterine tone is particularly concerning.