Paramedic National Registry Practice

What is the first question you should ask a pregnant woman presenting with abdominal pain?

1. Have you eaten recently?

2. Are you experiencing any nausea?

3. Do you have an urge to push?

4. How long have you been in pain?

The correct answer is: Do you have an urge to push?

When assessing a pregnant woman presenting with abdominal pain, asking if she has an urge to push is crucial because this question directly relates to the possibility of imminent labor or delivery. If the woman is in labor, it indicates that she may need immediate medical intervention and transport to a facility equipped for obstetrical emergencies. In a pregnant patient, abdominal pain can have various causes, including labor. If the woman feels the urge to push, it suggests that the fetus is descending into the birth canal, indicating an advanced stage of labor that requires urgent attention. This question prioritizes the safety of both mother and baby by determining the immediacy of the situation. In contrast, while the other questions may provide useful information regarding her overall condition, they do not address the immediate risk of delivery. Questions related to food intake or nausea may help identify gastrointestinal issues or complications but are less critical than assessing for potential labor. Additionally, asking about the duration of the pain can help gauge the severity of the situation but does not directly indicate labor status. Thus, confirming the urge to push is the most pertinent and time-sensitive inquiry in this scenario.