Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam

The correct answer focuses on hyperemesis gravidarum, which is a condition marked by severe and persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. This is more than the typical morning sickness that many pregnant women experience; it can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and electrolyte imbalances, and may require hospitalization for management. Understanding this condition is crucial for inpatient obstetric nurses, as they often care for patients who may need medical intervention to manage their symptoms and ensure both maternal and fetal well-being.

In contrast, preeclampsia involves high blood pressure and often protein in the urine, and while it can cause nausea, it is not primarily characterized by vomiting. Gestational diabetes is related to the body's inability to process carbohydrates effectively during pregnancy, which does not typically include prominent symptoms of vomiting. Lastly, placental abruption is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus and can cause bleeding and abdominal pain, rather than vomiting as a primary symptom. Therefore, recognizing hyperemesis gravidarum as the complication characterized by excessive vomiting is essential for effective patient assessment and intervention in obstetric care.