When a client is suspected to have abruptio placentae, which finding is the charge nurse likely to encounter?

When a client is suspected to have abruptio placentae, the presence of dark, red vaginal bleeding is a key finding that points towards this condition. Abruptio placentae, or placental abruption, involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, typically leading to significant blood loss. The blood that is expelled often appears dark red, indicating that it is older blood rather than fresh, which can be associated with other conditions, such as placenta previa, where bright red bleeding is more common.

Additionally, this type of bleeding is often accompanied by a tense, painful abdomen. The dark, red color of the bleeding is particularly indicative of the maternal-fetal compromise associated with this condition, leading to potential complications for both the mother and the fetus. Identifying this characteristic helps healthcare providers quickly intervene and manage the potential risks associated with abruptio placentae.