Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

The hallmark symptom of placenta previa is painless, bright red vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester. This occurs due to the abnormal placement of the placenta over or near the internal cervical os. Other conditions, such as abruptio placenta, would typically present with painful bleeding. The absence of abdominal pain helps distinguish placenta previa from other possible diagnoses.