What is the condition called where the uterus is turned inside out partially or completely?

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Uterine inversion is the medical term for the condition where the uterus turns inside out, either partially or completely.
This is a rare but life-threatening complication of the third stage of labor.
It is often associated with excessive cord traction before placental separation or a fundally implanted placenta.
The primary signs are sudden, severe postpartum hemorrhage and cardiovascular collapse (shock).

Option A: Retroversion refers to the position of the uterus, not its structure. It means the uterus is tilted backward toward the spine.
Option C: Involution is the normal, physiological process of the uterus shrinking back to its pre-pregnancy size after childbirth.
Option D: Subinvolution is the failure of the uterus to follow the normal pattern of involution. The uterus remains enlarged and soft, often leading to prolonged postpartum bleeding.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Postpartum Complications: Uterine Abnormalities as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Immediate recognition of uterine inversion is critical for a nurse. The sudden appearance of a vaginal mass, combined with severe hemorrhage and shock, should prompt immediate emergency action.
The nurse's role includes calling for help (activating PPH protocol), initiating massive transfusion protocols, and preparing for immediate uterine repositioning by the provider.
What if the placenta is still attached to the inverted uterus? The nurse should anticipate that the provider will attempt to replace the uterus without first detaching the placenta. Removing the placenta before repositioning can cause catastrophic hemorrhage.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: "uterus is turned inside out."
Next, recall or look up the definitions of the four terms provided in the options.
Retroversion: Uterus tilted backward.
Inversion: Uterus turned inside out.
Involution: Normal shrinking of the uterus post-delivery.
Subinvolution: Failure of the uterus to shrink normally.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 1-3

Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.