Chapter 3: Anatomy and Physiology of the Reproductive System (Prep U)

A client asks the nurse about cervical mucus changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. Which statement should the nurse expect to include in the client's teaching plan? During ovulation, the cervix remains dry with scant mucus secretion. Cervical mucus disappears immediately after ovulation, resuming with menses. As ovulation approaches, cervical mucus is abundant and stretchable. About midway through the menstrual cycle, cervical mucus is clear and sticky.

As ovulation approaches, cervical mucus is abundant and stretchable. During ovulation, the cervix produces thin, clear, stretchy, slippery mucus that is designed to capture the man's sperm, nourish it, and help the sperm travel up through the cervix to meet the ovum for fertilization.

The nurse is examining a pregnant female in her third trimester and measuring to determine if fetal growth has increased. Where would the nurse place the measuring tape? At the top of the fundus Just below the pubis symphysis At the uterine isthmus At the level of the corpus

At the top of the fundus The uterine fundus is located that the uppermost portion of the uterus; that is where the uterus is measured to determine fetal size and gestation. The isthmus is the uterine segment that connects the cervix to the uterus. The corpus, the main body of the uterus, is not the top of the uterus. One end of the measuring tape is placed at the top of the pubic symphysis and extended to the top of the fundus.

A nurse is assessing a female client. When obtaining the client's history, the client tells the nurse that her menstrual cycle is usually 30 days and that she expects her next menstruation on March 20. Based on the client's information and the nurse's understanding of the female reproductive cycle, the nurse would identify ovulation as most likely occurring at which time? March 1 March 27 March 6 March 13

March 6 Ovulation usually occurs on day 14 in a 28-day cycle; however, whether a woman's cycle is 28 days or 120 days, ovulation takes place 14 days before menstruation.

The uterus has specific functions in the female body. Which would not be a function of the uterus? Nourish the growing fetus Aid in childbirth Prepare for pregnancy each month Stretch during childbirth to accommodate a full-term infant

Stretch during childbirth to accommodate a full-term infant The uterus does not stretch during childbirth to allow passage of the infant. It stretches during the pregnancy. The vagina is the structure that expands during childbirth.

A client is attempting to become pregnant and is using varied methods to identify ovulation. What assessment finding would most clearly suggest that the client is ovulating? The client has clear, thin cervical mucus The client menstruated eight days ago Cervical mucus is absent The client's progesterone levels are peaking

The client has clear, thin cervical mucus Cervical mucus is clear and thin near ovulation. Ovulation typically occurs near day 14 of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone levels are low near the time of ovulation.

A young male client asks the nurse about circumcision, since he was never circumcised as an infant. Which rationale would be appropriate for exploring circumcision in an adult male? The foreskin appears to cover the glans of the penis. The client has experienced recurring infections of the glans. His scrotum appears uneven with one testicle higher than the other. The client is experiencing premature ejaculation.

The client has experienced recurring infections of the glans. If an uncircumcised client is experiencing medical problems such a recurrent infections of the glans and difficulty retracting the foreskin in adulthood, circumcision is a consideration. Having premature ejaculation is not a reason for circumcision. The foreskin covering the glans is a normal finding, as is one side of the scrotum being higher than the other.

Which statement best expresses the role of the corpus luteum? During the luteal phase, the corpus luteum secretes glycogen. The corpus luteum promotes the increased production of estrogen before ovulation. The corpus luteum secretes progesterone to promote the preparation of the endometrium for implantation. Increasing amounts of cervical mucus are produced as a result of the luteinizing hormone produced by the corpus luteum.

The corpus luteum secretes progesterone to promote the preparation of the endometrium for implantation. The mature ovum is released from the ovary, resulting in the corpus luteum. Progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum. Estrogen is secreted by the ovaries. Glycogen is secreted by the endometrial glands during the luteal phase. Luteinizing hormone is not a product of the corpus luteum.

A nurse is assessing a 45-year-old client. The client asks for information regarding the changes that are most likely to occur with menopause. Which should the nurse tell the client? The uterus tilts backward. The uterus shrinks and gradually atrophies. The outer layer of the cervix becomes rough. Cervical muscle content increases.

The uterus shrinks and gradually atrophies. After menopause, the uterus shrinks and gradually atrophies. A full bladder, not menopause, causes the uterus to tilt backward. Cervical muscle content does not increase during menopause. Menopause has no significant effect on the outer layer of the cervix.

The nurse is explaining about the function of the mons pubis to a client. Which explanation describes the function of the mons pubis? To serve as the receptacle for sperm To enhance sexual pleasure To protect the pelvic bones during sexual intercourse To allow for stretching during birth

To protect the pelvic bones during sexual intercourse The mons pubis is a fatty pad that lies over the pubic symphysis and serves to protect the pelvic bones during intercourse. The vagina is the receptacle for sperm, the clitoris is the body that enhances sexual pleasure in the female, and the perineum and pelvic floor are the structures that stretch during birth.

A nurse is caring for an adolescent girl experiencing menstruation for the first time. What are the changes that occur in the body at this stage that the nurse should share with the adolescent girl? irritability and insomnia urinary incontinence hot flashes breast development

breast development Breast development is a change that occurs in the body of an adolescent girl. Many changes take place in the body, such as the appearance of feminine contours, development of breast tissue, appearance of unique fatty deposits, and hair in the pubic and axillary areas. Menopausal clients often experience irritability and insomnia, hot flashes, and urinary incontinence.

A woman tells the nurse she has difficulty achieving orgasm. Orgasm in females results mainly from which stimulus? uterine stimulation sensory arousal clitoral stimulation penile penetration

clitoral stimulation The clitoris is thought to be the main stimulus for initiating orgasm in women.

A group of nursing students are comparing male and female reproductive organs. The instructor determines the class is successful when the students correctly deduce the male glans penis is complementary to which female structure? vagina vulva clitoris labia majora

clitoris The female clitoris is complementary (equitable) to the glans; both of these are composed of erectile tissue and are the primary organs responsible for orgasm. Other comparable structures include the testes and ovaries, and scrotum and labia majora. The vagina does not have a comparable male structure.

A group of nursing students are preparing a presentation for a health fair illustrating what happens to the body during pregnancy. Which structure will the students point out is influenced the most by hormones to prepare for conception? endometrium perimetrium myometrium fundus

endometrium The endometrium is the inner layer of the uterus; it builds with hormones during the month in potential preparation for pregnancy. The myometrium is the muscular layer. The perimetrium is a protective layer, and the fundus is the upper area of the uterus.

The seminiferous tubules are tiny coils of tissue where spermatogenesis occurs. Where do the sperm mature? vas deferens prostate epididymis seminal vesicles

epididymis A system of tiny tubes called the rete testis leads from the seminiferous tubules to the epididymis, an intricate network of coiled ducts on the posterior portion of each testis that is approximately 20 feet (6 m) in length. It is here that sperm mature.

The nurse is teaching a group of college students about the four phases of the sexual response. Which phase will the nurse point out as producing an elevation in heart rate, blood pressure, and respirations? excitement resolution plateau orgasm

excitement During the excitement phase, the physiologic response of both male and females results in an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and respirations. During the plateau phase, the physiologic changes that occurred during excitement are maintained. In the female, the clitoris retracts and the uterus is fully elevated. In the male, the penis engorges further and the testes remain elevated. Orgasm is marked by muscular contractions. During resolution, the muscles relax and blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing return to normal.

A nurse is conducting an in-service education program about the female reproductive cycle for a group of nurses working at a women's health clinic. When describing the phases of the endometrial cycle, the nurse would explain that the proliferative phase of the endometrial cycle corresponds to which phase in the ovarian cycle? menstrual ischemic secretory follicular

follicular The endometrial cycle consists of four phases: proliferative, secretory, ischemic, and menstrual. The proliferative phase of the endometrial cycle corresponds to the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle.

After teaching a health education class on the female reproductive cycle, the nurse determines that the teaching was effective when the group identifies which phase as belonging to the ovarian cycle? proliferative phase secretory phase follicular phase ischemic phase

follicular phase The ovarian cycle consists of the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. The proliferative, secretory, and ischemic phases occur in the endometrial cycle.

The mother of a 10-year-old female brings the girl to the clinic for a routine health visit. During the visit, the mother asks the nurse, "I'm wondering, can you tell me when my daughter might have her first period?" When responding to the mother, the nurse would integrate understanding of which factor as being most important in determining the age at which menstruation would occur? geographic location genetics attitude nutritional status

genetics Although geographic location, nutrition, weight, general health, nutrition, cultural and social practices, the girl's educational level, attitude, family environment, and beliefs are important, genetics is the most important factor in determining the age at which menarche starts.

A nurse is explaining to a client about monthly hormonal changes. Starting with day 1 of the menstrual cycle, place the hormones in the chronological order in which they elevate during the menstrual cycle. All options must be used. progesterone estrogen follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GRH) luteinizing hormone (LH)

gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnHR) estrogen follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) luteinizing hormone (LH) progesterone Bartholin glands, when stimulated, secrete mucus that supplies lubrication for intercourse. Endocrine glands secrete hormones for various bodily functions. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormones to stimulate the ovary to produce follicles. Skene glands secrete a small amount of mucus to keep the opening to the urethra moist and lubricated for the passage of urine.

A nurse is putting together educational material for clients who desire to learn about how to get pregnant. Part of this information will explain that fertilization occurs: in the fallopian tubes. in the vagina. in the ovaries. in the uterus.

in the fallopian tubes. Fertilization of the ovum can occur in the distal portion of the fallopian tubes. If the egg is fertilized, it will then be moved through the fallopian tube towards the uterus where it implants in the thick endometrium and begins its development.

A nurse caring for a 43-year-old client explains to the client that ovarian functions gradually decrease around this age. What is the implication of decreased ovarian function? inability to become pregnant changes in sexual response susceptibility to fractures increases the risk of heart disease

inability to become pregnant Because of the decrease in ovarian functions, the client loses the ability to become pregnant. Loss of estrogen makes the client susceptible to fractures and also increases the risk of heart disease. Changes in sexual response are usually related to physical changes in the vagina.

The nurse is reviewing the role of the mammary glands in the reproductive process with a birth class. What should the nurse tell the class is the name of the ducts in the mammary glands that form a small reservoir for milk? nipple lobules areola lactiferous

lactiferous Each breast is divided into 15 to 20 lobes of glandular tissue, covered by adipose (fat) tissue, which gives the breast its shape. The lobes are made up of lobules, which consist of milk-secreting cells in glandular alveoli. From the alveoli, small lactiferous ducts converge toward each nipple like the spokes of a wheel. Each lactiferous duct forms a small reservoir for milk. The structures of the breast include the nipple, the areola, and the areolar glands. The nipple is a circular projection containing some erectile tissue. It is surrounded by the pigmented areola. Areolar glands, which are close to the skin's surface, make the areola appear rough.

A 47-year-old woman is being seen at the local clinic reporting irregular menstrual cycles. The nurse would explain to the client that the irregularity is most likely due to: menopause. pregnancy. an underlying endocrine problem. hormonal fluctuations.

menopause. As a woman's reproductive capabilities end, her menstrual cycles will become irregular and finally cease. The average age for menopause is 47 to 55 years. This client meets these criteria. Pregnancy would cause absence of menstrual cycles. Hormonal fluctuations and underlying endocrine problems would not be the anticipated causality.

A client is trying to have a baby and wants to know the best time to have intercourse to increase the chances of pregnancy. Which time for intercourse is ideal to help her chances of conceiving? any time during the week before ovulation a week after ovulation one or two days before ovulation any time after ovulation

one or two days before ovulation To increase the chances of conceiving, the best time for intercourse is 1 or 2 days before ovulation. This ensures that the sperm meets the ovum at the right time. The average life of a sperm cell is 2 to 3 days, and the sperm cells will not be able to survive until ovulation if intercourse occurs a week before ovulation. The chances of conception are minimal for intercourse after ovulation.

A nurse is teaching a client about the reproductive system and the hormones involved. The nurse would include which structures as the source of these hormones? Select all that apply. hypothalamus uterus ovaries pituitary placenta

ovaries hypothalamus pituitary The reproductive cycle is influenced and controlled by hormones secreted by the ovaries, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. The placenta secretes a temporary hormone that assists with maintaining pregnancy. The uterus does not secrete hormones.

A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a woman who has given birth vaginally. The record reveals that the client required a right mediolateral episiotomy during birth. When assessing the client, the nurse would inspect which area to evaluate the status of the episiotomy? clitoris labia vestibule perineum

perineum The perineum is the most posterior part of the external female reproductive organs. This external region is located between the vulva and the anus. It is made up of skin, muscle, and fascia. Incising the perineum area to provide more space for the presenting part is called an episiotomy. An episiotomy does not involve the clitoris, vestibule, or labia.

The nurse is answering questions from a newborn's parents concerning a circumcision. Which structure will the nurse point out is removed during the procedure? rugae tunica albuginea prepuce corpus spongiosum

prepuce The foreskin or prepuce is a fold of skin which covers the glans of the penis. This fold of skin is removed in a circumcision. The tunica albuginea is connective tissue found inside the penile shaft. The corpus spongiosum is erectile tissue that runs the full length of the penis. Rugae are folds that allow for stretching during an erection.

A nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a woman who is planning to become pregnant. Which hormone secreted by the corpus luteum would the nurse include in the discussion when describing how the endometrium is prepped for egg implantation? luteinizing hormone testosterone estrogen progesterone

progesterone After the follicle ruptures as it releases the egg, it closes and forms a corpus luteum. The corpus luteum secretes increasing amounts of the hormone progesterone, which interacts with the endometrium to prepare it for implantation. The corpus luteum does not secrete estrogen, testosterone, or luteinizing hormone.

Which hormone is called the hormone of pregnancy because it reduces uterine contractions during pregnancy? follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) luteinizing hormone (LH) progesterone estrogen

progesterone Progesterone is called the hormone of pregnancy because it reduces uterine contractions, thus producing a calming effect on the uterus, allowing pregnancy to be maintained. FSH is primarily responsible for the maturation of the ovarian follicle. LH is required for both the final maturation of preovulatory follicles and the luteinization of the ruptured follicle. Estrogen is crucial for the development and maturation of the follicle.

A nurse is teaching a sex education class and is discussing sexual response. She describes a 30-minute period during which external and internal genital organs return to an unaroused state. What is this phase of sexual response known as? plateau resolution orgasm excitement

resolution Resolution, the fourth and final phase of sexual response, is a 30-minute refractory period during which the external and internal genital organs return to an unaroused state. Excitement, the first phase, occurs with physical and psychological stimulation (sight, sound, emotion, or thought) that causes parasympathetic nerve stimulation. The plateau stage, which is the second phase, is reached just before orgasm. Orgasm, the third phase, occurs when stimulation proceeds through the plateau stage to a point at which a vigorous contraction of muscles in the pelvic area expels or dissipates blood and fluid from the area of congestion.

After teaching a class on the female reproductive system, the nurse determines that the teaching was successful when the class identifies which action as the primary function of the ovaries? implanting a fertilized ovum secreting mucus that supplies lubrication for intercourse secreting estrogen and progesterone carrying the ovum to the endometrium

secreting estrogen and progesterone The ovaries have two primary functions: development and release of the ovum and secretion of estrogen and progesterone. The fallopian tubes are responsible for conveying the ovum from the ovary to the uterus and sperm from the uterus toward the ovary. The Bartholin glands when stimulated secrete mucus that supplies lubrication for intercourse. The uterus is the site of implantation of a fertilized ovum.

A woman has been assessing her basal body temperature for 4 months. Upon reviewing her temperature history log, the nurse notes no change in her daily temperatures. Which should the nurse expect the health care provider to prescribe first? vaginal discharge culture endometrial biopsy clomiphene serum progesterone level

serum progesterone level There should be a significant increase in temperature, usually 0.5° to 1° F, within a day or two after ovulation has occurred. The temperature remains elevated for 12 to 16 days, until menstruation begins. The cause of this rise in temperature is the hormone progesterone. If there is no change in the woman's monthly temperature, the progesterone level should be assessed.

An adult client currently has low levels of estrogen and progesterone. At this point in the menstrual cycle, the client will likely: shed her uterine lining. experience endometrial regeneration. ovulate. become pregnant.

shed her uterine lining. Low levels of estrogen and progesterone cause the shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium). Ovulation and subsequent pregnancy result from increased hormone levels. Regeneration follows ovulation during the secretory phase.

The school nurse is teaching a health education class on the male reproductive system. The nurse determines the class is successful when the students correctly point out which structure produces sperm? scrotum seminal vesicles prostate gland testes

testes The testes are responsible for sperm production. The seminal vesicles produce nutrient seminal fluid. The scrotum surrounds and protects the testes. The prostate gland and the seminal vesicles produce fluid to nourish the sperm.

A nurse is conducting a health class for a group of adolescents about male and female reproduction. When describing the testes, the nurse would explain that these organs are important for manufacturing which hormone? luteinizing hormone estrogen testosterone progesterone

testosterone The testes serve two functions: production of sperm and synthesis of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. Estrogen is secreted by the ovaries; progesterone is secreted by the corpus luteum. Luteinizing hormone is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and is responsible for both the final maturation of the preovulatory follicles and luteinization of the ruptured follicle.

Which client should the nurse flag for the health care provider to assess first? the male client with three palpable masses in the testes the male client whose scrotum is covered with hair the female client with an inverted, pear-shaped uterus the female client with a soft, doughnut-shaped cervix

the male client with three palpable masses in the testes The testes should have two nut-like structures present in males. The third mass could indicate a tumor or other anomaly. All the remaining clients have normal, expected findings.

A school nurse is talking to an adolescent who asks about why she has monthly menstrual cycles. The best explanation that the nurse can offer regarding the menstrual phase is to tell her that: each month, her uterine lining thins out and vessels close to the surface begin to fill with blood. the uterine lining is being shed due to lowering of hormone levels. her hormones cause her to accumulate blood in the uterus from ovulation. her uterus fills up with blood each month and is passed during the menstrual cycle.

the uterine lining is being shed due to lowering of hormone levels. During the menstrual phase of the cycle, the endometrium, or lining of the uterus, is shed because of low estrogen and progesterone levels. The uterus does not fill up with blood monthly, nor do her hormones cause blood accumulation on the uterus. Also, the uterine lining thickens (rather than thins out) each month in preparation of implantation of the fertilized egg.

When reviewing normal menstruation with an early adolescent, the nurse would teach that during the second half of a typical menstrual cycle, the endometrium of the uterus becomes: thick and purple-hued, due to progesterone stimulation. thin and transparent, due to follicle-stimulating hormone. thin and transparent, due to progesterone stimulation. thick and purple-hued, due to estrogen stimulation.

thick and purple-hued, due to progesterone stimulation. Progesterone is released following ovulation and thus is the dominating hormone of the second half of the menstrual cycle; its effect is to increase endometrium growth. Progesterone stimulates a growth of tissue, not a thinning of it. FSH and estrogen are found in the earlier stages of menstruation, not in the second half.

There are two major functions of the reproductive system, continuation of the species and sexual pleasure. In the male, the reproductive system has a third function. What is this third function? urinary elimination production of sex hormones elimination of solid wastes stimulation of sexual maturation

urinary elimination Some of the structures in the reproductive tract serve dual purposes. Most often these alternate functions have to do with urinary elimination because the urinary and reproductive systems are closely connected.

A nurse is teaching a group of women at the local health clinic about reproduction. After describing the various internal structures involved, the nurse determines that the teaching was successful when the group identifies which structure as connecting the external structures with the cervix? vagina uterus rugae fundus

vagina The vagina is a canal that connects the external genitals to the cervix. The uterus is an inverted, pear-shaped muscular organ at the top of the vagina and is subdivided into the convex portion above the uterine tubes, called the fundus, the central portion or corpus between the fundus and the cervix, and the cervix, or neck which opens into the vagina. Rugae are transverse folds in the vagina that allow it to dilate during labor and birth.

A nurse is conducting a class and is describing the spermatic cord. Which structures would the nurse identify as being involved? Select all that apply. urethra seminal vesicles nerves vas deferens blood vessels

vas deferens blood vessels nerves The vas deferens is a cord-like duct that transports sperm from the epididymis. One such duct travels from each testis up to the back of the prostate and enters the urethra to form the ejaculatory ducts. Other structures, such as blood vessels and nerves, also travel along with each vas deferens and together form the spermatic cord. The urethra is the terminal duct of the reproductive and urinary systems. The seminal vesicles produce nutrient seminal fluid and with the prostate are connected to the ejaculatory duct leading into the urethra.

A young male asks the nurse at the clinic about what he can do to maintain his sperm production. The nurse would instruct him to take which action? It is recommended that men wear boxer-style underwear. Buy only cotton underwear for use. Take long, hot baths to encourage sperm production. Wear snug fitting pants to support the scrotum.

It is recommended that men wear boxer-style underwear. It is recommended that men wear loose fitting pants and underwear in order to keep the testes cooler than body temperature to best support sperm production. Tight pants and hot baths are counterproductive to sperm production; wearing cotton underwear does not affect it.

As part of caring for childbearing families, the nurse must be able to educate families regarding which topic? Proper selection of a physician Knowledge of reproductive anatomy and physiology The best hospital for delivery of their babies The cost of obstetrical and neonatal care

Knowledge of reproductive anatomy and physiology The obstetrical/gynecological nurse must be well versed in pregnancy and childbirth, as well as an understanding of clients of childbearing age. As a gynecological nurse, he or she must also have a good grasp of reproductive anatomy and physiology and the menstrual cycle. Helping select a physician, a hospital, or providing input on cost factors is not the nurse's job.

A newly married female is talking to the nurse about her desire to get pregnant soon. Which suggestion would the nurse make to assist this client? It is recommended to check her mucus and have intercourse when the mucus is opaque and scant. If she has irregular menstrual cycles, that should not interfere with her conceiving as long as she has intercourse on the same days every month. Sexual intercourse should occur between Day 13 and 15 of her menstrual cycle. If ovulation occurs on Day 14 of her menstrual cycle, she should have intercourse one week later on Day 21.

Sexual intercourse should occur between Day 13 and 15 of her menstrual cycle. Fertilization occurs when the woman ovulates and has intercourse within a day either before or after ovulation. The mucus near ovulation is clear, stretchable and thin to facilitate the movement of the sperm. Conception can only occur at the time of ovulation, so having the client engage in intercourse on the same days monthly will not help her conceive. Waiting one week following ovulation will lessen the chance of conception greatly.

A client is at the clinic for her yearly physical and is found to be anemic. What information from her history would most likely be a contributory factor to this finding? She exercises 1 hour every day at the gym. She eats chicken and spinach salads three times a week. She has been on a weight loss plan, counting calories. She reports that her menstrual cycle is irregular and often lasts 7 to 10 days.

She reports that her menstrual cycle is irregular and often lasts 7 to 10 days. Prolonged menstrual cycles can cause anemia and iron deficiency due to the blood loss. The other factors will not make the client anemic.

The mother of a 9-year-old girl is concerned because her daughter has already begun menstruating. The daughter is of normal height for her age and weighs 150 lbs (68 kg). The mother is concerned that this is not normal and asks about the factors that could be involved. Which response by the nurse would be best? "You are right to be concerned, as 9 is not a normal age to begin menstruation; lack of proper nutrition may be a contributing factor." "Nine is a completely normal age to begin menstruation; the age of menarche is governed completely by genetics." "It has become more common for girls to start their periods as early as 9; her weight may be a contributing factor." "Nine is an early age to begin menstruation; anorexia nervosa may be a contributing factor."

"It has become more common for girls to start their periods as early as 9; her weight may be a contributing factor." Although it is not proven, the general consensus is a girl must reach a critical weight of approximately 95 lb (43 kg) or develop a critical mass of body fat before the hypothalamus is triggered to send initial stimulation to the anterior pituitary gland to begin the formation of FSH and LH. Probably because of the combination of better nutrition and increased obesity, girls are beginning puberty at earlier ages than ever before (9 to 12 years). Nine is an early age to begin menstruation, but it is within the normal range. Anorexia nervosa is associated with delays or halts in menstruation, not early menstruation. The age of menarche is not governed completely by genetics; other factors are involved.

A woman experiencing menopausal symptoms asks the nurse about herbal remedies for managing her symptoms. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate? "You should avoid herbal remedies and ask your primary care provider for hormone replacement therapy." "Herbal remedies have been proven quite reliable in alleviating the symptoms of menopause." "Most of the information about herbal therapies is based on reports by those who have used them, not scientific studies." "Your symptoms are not severe enough to warrant any treatment or therapy."

"Most of the information about herbal therapies is based on reports by those who have used them, not scientific studies." Information about the efficacy of herbal therapies is largely anecdotal. Research to validate the efficacy, safety, and potential harmful effects of herbal therapies is lacking. Until recently, hormone replacement therapy was the mainstay of treatment, but in light of the results of the Women's Health Initiative trial, it has become controversial. Telling the woman that her symptoms are not severe enough is demeaning and inappropriate: the woman's symptoms are significant to her, regardless of what the nurse may think.

The nurse educates a client who is confused about her ovarian cycle. Which client statement would best validate her understanding of the education? "When I ovulate, there is a follicle on my uterus that forms showing that an ova was released." "Two hormones control my ovulation, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)." "I will ovulate every month on Day 21 of my cycle." "My menstrual cycles are controlled by progesterone production."

"Two hormones control my ovulation, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)." Ovulation is controlled by FSH and LH, with the follicle-stimulating hormone encompassing days 1 to 14 of a 28-day cycle and the luteinizing hormone controlling the luteal phase, which is days 15 to 28. The follicle forms only in the ovary, not the uterus. Ovulation should occur on Day 14 of a normal 28-day cycle. Both estrogen and progesterone are necessary to the menstrual cycle, not just progesterone.

The nurse is working with a young couple who are trying to conceive. The nurse recognizes that the clients understand the basics of the reproductive cycle when they identify that ovulation usually occurs at which day during a 28-day cycle? 20 16 10 14

14 Ovulation usually occurs at day 14 of a 28-day cycle.

It is important that couples who wish to practice natural forms of birth control understand that the mucus-secreting glands of the cervix can store live sperm for up to: 36 hours. 12 hours. 24 hours. 48 hours.

48 hours. The mucus-secreting glands of the cervix are capable of storing live sperm for 48 to 72 hours (2 to 3 days), enabling pregnancy to occur after intercourse has occurred 1 or 2 days before ovulation.

A group of students are reviewing material in preparation for a test on the male and female breasts. The students demonstrate understanding of the material when they identify which information? Progesterone is primarily responsible for the growth of breast tissue. Striated muscle in the nipples contract, causing them to become erect. A primary function of the female breast is to produce milk. The breasts contain a limited supply of blood vessels.

A primary function of the female breast is to produce milk. A primary function of the female breast is to produce milk, a process called lactation. The breasts contain an abundant supply of blood vessels and lymphatics. Estrogen is the hormone primarily responsible for the growth and development of breast tissue. Smooth muscle in the nipples contracts, causing the nipples to become erect when cold, touched, or sexually stimulated.

The nurse is inserting a client's urinary catheter as prescribed. When the nurse begins to introduce the tip of the catheter, the client winces and cries out in pain. What is the nurse's best action? Confirm that the tip of the catheter is not touching the clitoris. Gently palpate the client's bladder to detect distention. Distract the client while making another attempt at insertion. Reassure the client that some pain is expected during insertion.

Confirm that the tip of the catheter is not touching the clitoris. The clitoris can be mistaken for the urethra during catheter insertion, causing pain. It would be unsafe and inappropriate to make another attempt without confirming the appropriate landmarking. Palpating the bladder does not address the fact that insertion may be incorrect. Insertion is sometimes uncomfortable, but should not cause pain.

Sperm maturation occurs in which portion of the male reproductive system? Prostate Epididymis Seminiferous tubules Vas deferens

Epididymis The epididymis, an intricate coil of ducts posterior to the testes, is the sight of sperm maturation. The vas deferens is the tube through which the mature sperm begin their journey out of the body. The seminiferous tubules are where production of sperm occurs. The prostate is a gland that has no bearing on maturation of sperm.

A couple comes to the clinic asking questions regarding getting pregnant. The nurse explains that fertilization normally occurs in what structure of the woman's body? Fallopian tube Ovarian surface Uterine corpus Uterine isthmus

Fallopian tube The ova mature and are released from the ovary. It then is attracted into the fallopian tube by the fimbriae where the sperm fertilizes it, usually in the ampulla portion of the tube.

The nurse is assessing a 16-year-old female on a routine well-child visit. Which assessment finding will the nurse predict this healthy female will report concerning her menstrual cycles? There's abundant clear mucus at the beginning The usual cycle is 36 days. Flow usually lasts 4 to 6 days. Menstruation began at age 15.

Flow usually lasts 4 to 6 days. The average menstrual flow is 4 to 6 days in length. The cycle usually lasts 28 days. There should be no mucus during the menstrual cycle, with clear mucus being noted at the time of ovulation or approximately day 14. Menstruation usually begins at the age of 12 to 14 years.

A nurse is teaching a group of adolescent girls about the menstrual cycle. The nurse would integrate information about which hormones as being predominant during the cycle? Select all that apply. prolactin testosterone GnRH LH FSH

GnRH FSH LH The predominant hormones involved in the menstrual cycle are gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, progesterone, and prostaglandins. Testosterone and prolactin do have a role in the female reproductive system are not considered predominant hormones for the menstrual cycle.

The vagina is at risk for infection because of its location and because it opens to the outside of the body. What is a protective mechanism of the vagina to keep it from becoming infected? Normal vaginal pH is acidic (4 to 5), which protects from infection. It produces its own natural antibiotics. It maintains an alkaline pH of 7 to 8, which destroys invading bacteria. Normal vaginal flora act as phagocytes of invading bacteria.

Normal vaginal pH is acidic (4 to 5), which protects from infection. Normally, the vagina maintains an acidic pH of 4 to 5, which protects the vagina from infection.

Hormonal regulation of reproductive functions in both the male and the female are complicated processes. In the male, where are the sex hormones produced? Seminal vesicles Cowper glands Bulbourethral glands Testes

Testes The testes serve two important functions: production of androgens (male sex hormones) and formation and maturation of spermatozoa.

The nurse is reviewing the functions of the ovaries, uterus, clitoris, and vagina with a group of nursing students. What would be the correct response by a nursing student about the function of the ovaries? They receive the fertilized ovum and provide housing and nourishment for a fetus. They are a small erectile structure that responds to sexual stimulation. They receive sperm, provide an exit for menstrual flow, and serve as the birth canal. They produce female gametes or ova and secrete female sex hormones.

They produce female gametes or ova and secrete female sex hormones. The ovaries' functions are to produce female gametes or ova and secrete female sex hormones. The uterus's functions are to receive the fertilized ovum and provide housing and nourishment for a fetus. The vagina's functions are to receive sperm, provide an exit for menstrual flow, and serve as the birth canal. The clitoris is a small erectile structure that responds to sexual stimulation.

The nurse is teaching a couple trying to conceive about the changes in the cervical mucus near the time of ovulation. The nurse determines the session is successful when the couple correctly choose mucus in which form as indicating ovulation has occurred? Thick and tacky Scant amount Thin and copious Mucus is not visible at ovulation

Thin and copious During ovulation, the mucus will be distensible and stretchable. After ovulation, the mucus will be scant, thick and opaque in nature. During the proliferative phase before ovulation, it is tacky, crumbly, and yellow or white in color. During the menses, there will be no mucus noted.

Which client should the nurse assess first? a nonpregnant client with a vaginal mucus pH level of 4.5 a 1-day postpartum client with dark, yellow nipple secretions a 6-month postpartum client whose cervical os has a transverse slit a nonpregnant client with a cervical mucus pH level of 3.8

a nonpregnant client with a cervical mucus pH level of 3.8 Cervical mucus should be alkaline to protect sperm from the acidic environment of the vagina. Colostrum, the dark yellow substance secreted from the breasts following childbirth, is a normal finding in a 1-day postbirth client. The vagina should have an acidic environment to aid in preventing ascending infections. The shape of the cervical os should be a transverse slit following birth.

The nurse at a health fair is teaching about the various changes of puberty. Which sequence of events will be best for the nurse to present when illustrating pubertal changes in females? Appearance of pubic hair, menarche, breast budding menarche, breast budding, appearance of pubic hair breast budding, appearance of pubic hair, menarche appearance of pubic hair, breast budding, menarche

breast budding, appearance of pubic hair, menarche Secondary sexual characteristics develop in an orderly sequence with variance in the timing for individuals. Breast budding in the female is usually the first physical sign noted, and occurs between the ages of 10 and 12 years on average. Appearance of pubic hair usually occurs just before menarche, the first menstrual period. From the onset to the start of menarche is typically 2 years.