Examination
Initial examination should involve an assessment that the woman is clinically stable:
- A, B, C
- Note colour, pulse, blood pressure & oxygen saturations
Followed by assessment to help formulate a differential diagnosis:
- Abdominal examination: note any tenderness, uterine activity, uterine size & fetal presentation / poistion / head engagement / caesarean section scar pain
- Avoid speculum / vaginal examination unless low lying placenta excluded
- CTG: Assess fetal wellbeing
FACT: The uterus recieves around 500mls of blood a minute and therefore significant bleeding can occur quickly and women can become very unwell. Call for help if any concerns.
