Which of the following findings is most characteristic of a hydatidiform mole in a pregnant client?

• A. Decreased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
• B. Vaginal bleeding with passage of grape-like vesicles
• C. Severe lower abdominal pain with fever
• D. Fetal heart tones detected by Doppler

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of a hydatidiform mole. A hydatidiform mole is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease characterized by abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue in the uterus. It is associated with abnormal pregnancy outcomes and can lead to complications if not treated.
2. Step 2: Review the role of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in pregnancy. hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. In cases of hydatidiform mole, hCG levels are typically elevated due to the abnormal proliferation of trophoblastic tissue.
3. Step 3: Analyze the symptoms associated with a hydatidiform mole. Common findings include vaginal bleeding, absence of fetal heart tones, and the passage of grape-like vesicles, which are clusters of swollen chorionic villi.
4. Step 4: Compare the options provided in the question. Decreased hCG levels are not characteristic of a hydatidiform mole, as hCG levels are usually elevated. Severe lower abdominal pain with fever is more indicative of an infection or ectopic pregnancy. Fetal heart tones detected by Doppler would suggest a viable pregnancy, which is not consistent with a hydatidiform mole.
5. Step 5: Identify the most characteristic finding. Vaginal bleeding with the passage of grape-like vesicles is the hallmark symptom of a hydatidiform mole, making it the correct answer based on the clinical presentation.