North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam 2026 - Free EMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct response identifies the two primary types of placental complications that can arise during pregnancy: abruptio placenta and placenta previa.

Abruptio placenta refers to a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely, which can lead to severe bleeding and can pose significant risks to both the mother and fetus. Symptoms may include abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, and this condition often necessitates immediate medical intervention.

Placenta previa, on the other hand, occurs when the placenta is abnormally located in the lower part of the uterus, covering all or part of the cervix. This condition can lead to complications, particularly during labor, as it can cause significant bleeding. It often requires special management, which may include a cesarean delivery if the placenta does not move away from the cervix as the pregnancy progresses.

Recognizing these two conditions is crucial for the proper assessment and management of complications during pregnancy, which is a key aspect of obstetric care that EMTs must be familiar with in order to provide safe and effective support in emergency situations.