In a 16-year-old pregnant patient with vaginal bleeding, what is the first aid action?

In a 16-year-old pregnant patient with vaginal bleeding, what is the first aid action?

• A. Apply a pad with direct pressure
• B. Administer IV antibiotics
• C. Palpate the abdomen to locate the placenta
• D. Give oral fluids only

Answer: (A)

Controlling bleeding is the immediate priority when a pregnant patient presents with vaginal bleeding. The quickest and safest first aid step is to place a clean pad over the vaginal opening and apply gentle direct pressure to absorb blood and help slow the bleed while you arrange further care. This directly addresses the hemorrhage without introducing invasive procedures or unnecessary treatments. Administering antibiotics isn’t indicated in a first-aid scenario, and attempting to palpate the abdomen to locate the placenta isn’t a safe or reliable maneuver for improvised care. Giving fluids alone won’t stop the bleeding and could delay definitive medical evaluation. After applying pressure, focus on maintaining airway and circulation, keeping the patient comfortable (preferably on the left side if tolerated), and ensuring rapid transport to a facility for assessment and management.

Controlling bleeding is the immediate priority when a pregnant patient presents with vaginal bleeding. The quickest and safest first aid step is to place a clean pad over the vaginal opening and apply gentle direct pressure to absorb blood and help slow the bleed while you arrange further care. This directly addresses the hemorrhage without introducing invasive procedures or unnecessary treatments.

Administering antibiotics isn’t indicated in a first-aid scenario, and attempting to palpate the abdomen to locate the placenta isn’t a safe or reliable maneuver for improvised care. Giving fluids alone won’t stop the bleeding and could delay definitive medical evaluation. After applying pressure, focus on maintaining airway and circulation, keeping the patient comfortable (preferably on the left side if tolerated), and ensuring rapid transport to a facility for assessment and management.