A 37-year-old woman at 35 weeks of pregnancy is bleeding and in pain. What is the immediate step you should take?

In cases of bleeding during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, estimating the amount of blood loss is crucial as it provides vital information about the severity and potential causes of the bleeding. Accurate assessment can help determine whether the situation is urgent and guide further management decisions.

Fluid loss during pregnancy can lead to significant complications for both the mother and fetus, including shock or fetal distress. By estimating the blood loss, the healthcare provider can evaluate the patient's condition more effectively and prioritize interventions. This step is foundational before diving into treatment options like administering pain medication or monitoring vital signs, as those actions depend heavily on understanding the extent of the bleeding. Knowing how much blood has been lost can also direct immediate interventions, such as fluid resuscitation or further diagnostic steps, which is critical in managing the situation safely for both the mother and the unborn child.