A pregnant client in the second trimester is suspected of having abruptio placentae. Which finding should the nurse expect?

In cases of abruptio placentae, which involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, a critical symptom to anticipate is severe abdominal pain. This pain often occurs suddenly and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or back pain. It results from the disruption of blood flow and the resultant inflammatory process within the uterine wall.

The presence of severe abdominal pain is significant as it indicates the potential for complications such as fetal distress or maternal hemorrhage, thus necessitating immediate medical attention. The other symptoms mentioned, such as light spotting, elevated blood pressure, and frequent urination, are either less common or associated with different conditions that do not have the same urgency or severity associated with abruptio placentae. Therefore, recognizing severe abdominal pain as a key indicator is crucial for prompt diagnosis and management.