Question

a young female complains of sharp pain to the left lower quadrant of her abdomen. she states that her last period was seven weeks ago. with this information, the emt should be suspicious of: a. abruptio placentae b. appendicitis c. ectopic pregnancy d. placenta previa

Explanation:

• Abruptio placentae: Usually occurs in later pregnancy (after 20 weeks), often with vaginal bleeding. The patient's last period was 7 weeks ago, so this is less likely.
• Appendicitis: Typically presents with pain around the umbilicus that migrates to the right lower quadrant. This patient has left lower quadrant pain.
• Ectopic pregnancy: Common symptoms include abdominal pain (often unilateral, like left lower quadrant here) and a history of missed period (last period 7 weeks ago suggests possible pregnancy).
• Placenta previa: Usually presents with painless vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester.

Answer:

C. Ectopic pregnancy