Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

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What might a "Cullen sign" indicate?

Intraperitoneal bleeding, particularly in cases of ruptured ectopic pregnancy

A "Cullen sign" is characterized by a bluish discoloration around the umbilicus and is indicative of intraperitoneal bleeding. This sign often emerges in cases where there is significant hemorrhage, such as a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, which leads to blood collecting in the abdominal cavity. The appearance of this sign is a result of blood tracking up through the peritoneum and becoming visible at the umbilical area. Recognizing the Cullen sign is essential in emergency medicine as it may provide a crucial diagnostic hint in assessing abdominal trauma or other acute conditions that result in internal bleeding.

In this context, while other options describe various abdominal issues, they do not specifically correlate with the presentation of a Cullen sign, which is unique to situations involving blood in the peritoneal cavity.

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External bleeding from an abdominal wound

Abdominal distension from fluid accumulation

Internal organ injury without bleeding

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