Bleeding During Pregnancy

Bleeding during pregnancy is a frightening and potentially life-threatening event occurring in one out of every five pregnancies. The purpose of this course is to assist nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and physician assistants working in a variety of settings to understand, triage, and manage bleeding in pregnancy in order to facilitate more efficient diagnoses and treatment, resulting in better patient outcomes. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Discuss the epidemiology of hemorrhagic conditions in pregnancy.

2. Identify potential causes of bleeding in pregnancy and pregnancy loss.

3. Compare the presentation and management of the different types of spontaneous abortion, including patient education and support needs.

4. Describe the risk factors and signs and symptoms associated with ectopic pregnancy.

5. Discuss the management and treatment of ectopic pregnancy, including the role of ultrasound.

6. Describe gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) and hydatidiform molar pregnancy.

7. Review the differential diagnosis of and complications correlated with complete, partial, and marginal placenta previa.

8. Define abruptio placenta and identify the associated risk factors.

9. Review the appropriate management of abruptio placenta.

10. Describe the evaluation of additional causes of bleeding in pregnancy.

11. Outline the importance of an interpreter in caring for non-English-proficient patients.


This 10-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.