FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

In a pregnant woman presenting with left lower quadrant pain and a tender mass on examination, what is the most concerning diagnosis?

1. Ovarian cyst

2. Appendicitis

3. Threatened abortion

4. Tubal pregnancy

The correct answer is: Tubal pregnancy

In the case of a pregnant woman presenting with left lower quadrant pain and a tender mass on examination, the most concerning diagnosis is a tubal pregnancy, also known as an ectopic pregnancy. This condition occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tube. Given that the patient is pregnant and presents with localized pain and a palpable mass, this raises significant concern for a possible rupture of the ectopic pregnancy, which can lead to internal bleeding, severe complications, and even be life-threatening. The clinical presentation aligns with how ectopic pregnancies often present, which typically includes unilateral pain and tenderness, as well as irregular bleeding. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial in such cases to ensure the safety of the patient. Other conditions listed, while they can also cause similar symptoms, do not carry the same level of immediate urgency as an ectopic pregnancy. Ovarian cysts might also present with pain but are generally less acute unless they rupture. Appendicitis could be a concern depending on the specifics of the case, but in a pregnant patient, especially with unilateral findings, ectopic pregnancy takes precedence. Threatened abortion refers to potential miscarriage without the same risk of acute rupture, making it a less critical concern at that moment compared