When treating a patient experiencing a spontaneous abortion, you should ________.

When treating a patient experiencing a spontaneous abortion, the appropriate action is to treat the patient for shock. This situation can lead to significant blood loss and the associated risk of shock, which is a life-threatening condition. Signs of shock may include rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, clammy skin, confusion, and weakness. It is crucial to monitor the patient's vital signs and provide immediate care to stabilize their condition.

In this context, while other actions like encouraging rest or calling a family member may provide emotional support, they do not address the immediate medical needs that arise from the physical changes occurring during a spontaneous abortion. Administering medication for pain relief might be an appropriate consideration, but it should only be done under specific medical guidance and typically after assessing the overall clinical situation. The primary concern in such cases must always be the patient’s safety and stabilization, making shock treatment paramount.