Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which examination is contraindicated for pregnant women diagnosed with placenta previa?

1. Echocardiogram

2. Intravaginal ultrasound

3. Abdominal ultrasound

4. Pelvic ultrasound

The correct answer is: Intravaginal ultrasound

The examination that is contraindicated for pregnant women diagnosed with placenta previa is the intravaginal ultrasound. This procedure involves inserting a transducer into the vagina, which can pose a risk of causing vaginal bleeding or disrupting the placenta. Given that placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta is abnormally positioned in the lower part of the uterus, near or covering the cervix, any invasive procedures involving the vaginal area could precipitate complications such as hemorrhage. In contrast, abdominal ultrasound and echocardiograms are non-invasive and pose no risk to the pregnancy or fetus in this context. An abdominal ultrasound provides imaging of the uterus and other structures without the need for invasive insertion. Pelvic ultrasound, while it can involve imaging that might be closer to the cervix than abdominal ultrasound, typically refers to external or abdominal access as well, making it acceptable under certain care guidelines. Thus, the intravaginal ultrasound is avoided to minimize any potential harm to both the mother and the fetus due to the positioning of the placenta.