A client who has a ruptured uterus is at risk of severe hemorrhage and shock, so the following tests are necessary to assess the blood loss and prepare for possible transfusion:

• A complete blood count (CBC) can show the level of hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

A low hemoglobin and hematocrit indicates anemia due to blood loss.

A high white blood cell count indicates infection or inflammation.

A low platelet count indicates impaired clotting ability.

• A blood type and cross-match can determine the client’s blood group and Rh factor, and identify compatible blood units for transfusion if needed.

• A coagulation profile can measure the time it takes for the blood to clot and the activity of clotting factors.

A prolonged prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), or international normalized ratio (INR) indicates a bleeding disorder or anticoagulant use.

A low fibrinogen level indicates excessive bleeding or consumption of clotting factors.