🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A 38-year-old woman, G2P2, presents to the clinic 6 weeks postpartum complaining of persistent vaginal bleeding that has become heavier and is associated with abdominal cramping. She reports passing some clots. Her vital signs are stable. Pelvic exam reveals a patulous cervix and moderate amount of blood in the vaginal vault. A bedside ultrasound shows retained placental fragments. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A Administer IV oxytocin
B Perform an endometrial biopsy
C Schedule for dilation and curettage (D&C)
D Initiate broad-spectrum oral antibiotics

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Retained placental fragments postpartum can cause persistent or secondary postpartum hemorrhage. Dilation and curettage (D&C) is the definitive treatment to remove the fragments and prevent further bleeding and potential infection. Oxytocin is less effective for retained fragments at this stage.

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