ob test 1

Which behavior indicates that a woman is "seeking safe passage" for herself and her infant? a. She keeps all prenatal appointments. b. She "eats for two." c. She slowly drives her car. d. She wears only low-heeled shoes.

ANS: A The goal of prenatal care is to foster a safe birth for the infant and mother. Although properly eating, carefully driving, and using proper body mechanics all are healthy measures that a mother can take, obtaining prenatal care is the optimal method for providing safety for both herself and her baby.

During the first trimester, which of the following changes regarding her sexual drive should a client be taught to expect? a. Increased sexual drive, because of enlarging breasts b. Decreased sexual drive, because of nausea and fatigue c. No change in her sexual drive d. Increased sexual drive, because of increased levels of female hormones

ANS: B A pregnant woman usually experiences a decrease, not an increase, in libido during the first trimester. Maternal physiologic changes, such as breast enlargement, nausea, fatigue, abdominal changes, perineal enlargement, leukorrhea, pelvic vasocongestion, and orgasmic responses, may affect sexuality and sexual expression. Libido may be depressed in the first trimester but often increases during the second and third trimesters. During pregnancy, the breasts may become enlarged and tender, which tends to interfere with coitus, thereby decreasing the desire to engage in sexual activity.

What condition indicates concealed hemorrhage when the client experiences abruptio placentae? a. Decrease in abdominal pain b. Bradycardia c. Hard, boardlike abdomen d. Decrease in fundal height

ANS: C Concealed hemorrhage occurs when the edges of the placenta do not separate. The formation of a hematoma behind the placenta and subsequent infiltration of the blood into the uterine muscle results in a very firm, boardlike abdomen. Abdominal pain may increase. The client will have shock symptoms that include tachycardia. As bleeding occurs, the fundal height increases.

A woman is using the basal body temperature (BBT) method of contraception. She calls the clinic and tells the nurse, "My period is due in a few days, and my temperature has not gone up." What is the nurse's most appropriate response? a. "This probably means that you're pregnant." b. "Don't worry; it's probably nothing." c. "Have you been sick this month?" d. "You probably didn't ovulate during this cycle."

ANS: D The absence of a temperature decrease most likely is the result of a lack of ovulation. Pregnancy cannot occur without ovulation, which is being measured using the BBT method. A comment such as, "Don't worry; it's probably nothing," discredits the client's concerns. Illness is most likely the cause of an increase in BBT.

A woman is in her seventh month of pregnancy. She reports episodes of nasal congestion and occasional epistaxis. Which statement best describes why this may be happening to this client? a. This respiratory change is normal in pregnancy and caused by an elevated level of estrogen. b. This cardiovascular change is abnormal, and the nosebleeds are an ominous sign. c. The woman is a victim of domestic violence and is being hit in the face by her partner. d. The woman has been likely intranasally using cocaine for several months.

ANS: A

What is the correct definition of a spontaneous termination of a pregnancy (abortion)? a. Pregnancy is less than 20 weeks. b. Fetus weighs less than 1000 g. c. Products of conception are passed intact. d. No evidence exists of intrauterine infection.

ANS: A

What is the highest priority nursing intervention when admitting a pregnant woman who has experienced a bleeding episode in late pregnancy? a. Assessing fetal heart rate (FHR) and maternal vital signs b. Performing a venipuncture for hemoglobin and hematocrit levels c. Placing clean disposable pads to collect any drainage d. Monitoring uterine contractions

ANS: A

Which women should undergo prenatal testing for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)? a. All women, regardless of risk factors b. Women who have had more than one sexual partner c. Women who have had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) d. Woman who are monogamous with one partner

ANS: A

Which pictorial tool can assist the nurse in assessing the aspects of family life related to health care? a. Genogram b. Ecomap c. Life-cycle model d. Human development wheel

ANS: A A genogram depicts the relationships of the family members over generations. An ecomap is a graphic portrayal of the social relationships of the woman and her family. The life-cycle model, in no way, illustrates a family genogram; rather, it focuses on the stages that a person reaches throughout life. The human development wheel describes various stages of growth and development rather than the family members' relationships to each other.

The nurse has formulated a diagnosis of Inadequate Nutrition for the client. Which goal is most appropriate for this client to obtain? a. Gain a total of 30 pounds. b. Consistently take daily supplements. c. Decrease her intake of snack foods. d. Increase her intake of complex carbohydrates

ANS: A A weight gain of 30 pounds is one indication that the client has gained a sufficient amount for the nutritional needs of pregnancy. A daily supplement is not the best goal for this client and does not meet the basic need of proper nutrition during pregnancy. Decreasing snack foods may be needed and should be assessed; however, assessing weight gain is the best method of monitoring nutritional intake for this pregnant client. Although increasing the intake of complex carbohydrates is important for this client, monitoring the weight gain should be the end goal.

Which term is an accurate description of the process by which people retain some of their own culture while adopting the practices of the dominant society? a. Acculturation b. Assimilation c. Ethnocentrism d. Cultural relativism

ANS: A Acculturation is the process by which people retain some of their own culture while adopting the practices of the dominant society. This process takes place over the course of generations. Assimilation is a loss of cultural identity. Ethnocentrism is the belief in the superiority of one's own culture over the cultures of others. Cultural relativism recognizes the roles of different cultures.

Which presumptive sign or symptom of pregnancy would a client experience who is approximately 10 weeks of gestation? a. Amenorrhea b. Positive pregnancy test c. Chadwick sign d. Hegar sign

ANS: A Amenorrhea is a presumptive sign of pregnancy. Presumptive signs of pregnancy are those felt by the woman. A positive pregnancy test and the presence of the Chadwick and Hegar signs are all probable signs of pregnancy.

Which information is the highest priority for the nurse to comprehend regarding the biophysical profile (BPP)? a. BPP is an accurate indicator of impending fetal well-being. b. BPP is a compilation of health risk factors of the mother during the later stages of pregnancy. c. BPP consists of a Doppler blood flow analysis and an amniotic fluid index (AFI). d. BPP involves an invasive form of an ultrasonic examination

ANS: A An abnormal BPP score is one indication that labor should be induced. The BPP evaluates the health of the fetus, requires many different measures, and is a noninvasive procedure.

What kind of fetal anomalies are most often associated with oligohydramnios? a. Renal b. Cardiac c. Gastrointestinal d. Neurologic

ANS: A An amniotic fluid volume of less than 300 ml (oligohydramnios) is often associated with fetal renal anomalies. The amniotic fluid volume has no bearing on the fetal cardiovascular system. Gastrointestinal anomalies are associated with hydramnios or an amniotic fluid volume greater than 2 L. The amniotic fluid volume has no bearing on the fetal neurologic system

A woman in labor passes some thick meconium as her amniotic fluid ruptures. The client asks the nurse where the baby makes the meconium. What is the correct response by the nurse? a. Fetal intestines b. Fetal kidneys c. Amniotic fluid d. Placenta

ANS: A As the fetus nears term, fetal waste products accumulate in the intestines as dark green-to-black, tarry meconium. Meconium is not produced by the fetal kidneys nor should it be present in the amniotic fluid, which may be an indication of fetal compromise. The placenta does not produce meconium.

Which term best describes the conscious decision concerning deciding when to conceive or avoid pregnancy as opposed to the intentional prevention of pregnancy during intercourse? a. Family planning b. Birth control c. Contraception d. Assisted reproductive therapy

ANS: A Family planning is the process of deciding when and if to have children. Birth control is the device and/or practice used to reduce the risk of conceiving or bearing children. Contraception is the intentional prevention of pregnancy during sexual intercourse. Assisted reproductive therapy is one of several possible treatments for infertility.

A pregnant woman reports that she is still playing tennis at 32 weeks of gestation. Which recommendation would the nurse make for this client after a tennis match? a. Drink several glasses of fluid. b. Eat extra protein sources such as peanut butter. c. Enjoy salty foods to replace lost sodium. d. Consume easily digested sources of carbohydrate

ANS: A If no medical or obstetric problems contraindicate physical activity, then pregnant women should get 30 minutes of moderate physical exercise daily. Liberal amounts of fluid should be consumed before, during, and after exercise because dehydration can trigger premature labor. The woman's caloric intake should be enough to meet the increased needs of pregnancy and the demands of exercise

A married couple lives in a single-family house with their newborn son and the husband's daughter from a previous marriage. Based on this information, what family form best describes this family? a. Married-blended family b. Extended family c. Nuclear family d. Same-sex family

ANS: A Married-blended families are formed as the result of divorce and remarriage. Unrelated family members join to create a new household. Members of an extended family are kin or family members related by blood, such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles. A nuclear family is a traditional family with male and female partners along with the children resulting from that union. A same-sex family is a family with homosexual partners who cohabit with or without children.

A pregnant client tells her nurse that she is worried about the blotchy, brownish coloring over her cheeks, nose, and forehead. The nurse can reassure her that this is a normal condition related to hormonal changes. What is the correct term for this integumentary finding? a. Melasma b. Linea nigra c. Striae gravidarum d. Palmar erythema

ANS: A Melasma, (also called chloasma, the mask of pregnancy), usually fades after birth. This hyperpigmentation of the skin is more common in women with a dark complexion. Melasma appears in 50% to 70% of pregnant women. Linea nigra is a pigmented line that runs vertically up the abdomen. Striae gravidarum are also known as stretch marks. Palmar erythema is signified by pinkish red blotches on the hands.

In caring for the woman with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which order should the nurse anticipate? a. Administration of blood b. Preparation of the client for invasive hemodynamic monitoring c. Restriction of intravascular fluids d. Administration of steroids

ANS: A Primary medical management in all cases of DIC involves a correction of the underlying cause, volume replacement, blood component therapy, optimization of oxygenation and perfusion status, and continued reassessment of laboratory parameters. Central monitoring would not be initially ordered in a client with DIC because it could contribute to more areas of bleeding. Management of DIC would include volume replacement, not volume restriction. Steroids are not indicated for the management of DIC.

A new mother asks the nurse about the "white substance" covering her infant. How should the nurse explain the purpose of vernix caseosa? a. Vernix caseosa protects the fetal skin from the amniotic fluid. b. Vernix caseosa promotes the normal development of the peripheral nervous system. c. Vernix caseosa allows the transport of oxygen and nutrients across the amnion. d. Vernix caseosa regulates fetal temperature.

ANS: A Prolonged exposure to the amniotic fluid during the fetal period could result in the breakdown of the skin without the protection of the vernix caseosa. Normal development of the peripheral nervous system was dependent on nutritional intake of the mother. The amnion was the inner membrane that surrounded the fetus and was not involved in the oxygen and nutrient exchange. The amniotic fluid helped maintain fetal temperature.

After the nurse completes nutritional counseling for a pregnant woman, she asks the client to repeat the instructions to assess the client's understanding. Which statement indicates that the client understands the role of protein in her pregnancy? a. "Protein will help my baby grow." b. "Eating protein will prevent me from becoming anemic." c. "Eating protein will make my baby have strong teeth after he is born." d. "Eating protein will prevent me from being diabetic."

ANS: A Protein is the nutritional element basic to growth. An adequate protein intake is essential to meeting the increasing demands of pregnancy. These demands arise from the rapid growth of the fetus; the enlargement of the uterus, mammary glands, and placenta; the increase in the maternal blood volume; and the formation of the amniotic fluid. Iron intake prevents anemia. Calcium intake is needed for fetal bone and tooth development. Glycemic control is needed in those with diabetes; protein is one nutritional factor to consider for glycemic control but not the primary role of protein intake.

What is the correct term used to describe the mucous plug that forms in the endocervical canal? a. Operculum b. Leukorrhea c. Funic souffle d. Ballottement

ANS: A The operculum protects against bacterial invasion. Leukorrhea is the mucus that forms the endocervical plug (the operculum). The funic souffle is the sound of blood flowing through the umbilical vessels. Ballottement is a technique for palpating the fetus.

A first-time mother at 18 weeks of gestation is in for her regularly scheduled prenatal visit. The client tells the nurse that she is afraid that she is going into premature labor because she is beginning to have regular contractions. The nurse explains that these are Braxton Hicks contractions. What other information is important for the nurse to share? a. Braxton Hicks contractions should be painless. b. They may increase in frequency with walking. c. These contractions might cause cervical dilation. d. Braxton Hicks contractions will impede oxygen flow to the fetus.

ANS: A Soon after the fourth month of gestation, uterine contractions can be felt through the abdominal wall. Braxton Hicks contractions are regular and painless and continue throughout the pregnancy. Although they are not painful, some women complain that they are annoying. This type of contraction usually ceases with walking or exercise. Braxton Hicks contractions can be mistaken for true labor; however, they do not increase in intensity, frequency, or cause cervical dilation. These contractions facilitate uterine blood flow through the intervillous spaces of the placenta and thereby promote oxygen delivery to the fetus.

Which information is an important consideration when comparing the contraction stress test (CST) with the nonstress test (NST)? a. The NST has no known contraindications. b. The CST has fewer false-positive results when compared with the NST. c. The CST is more sensitive in detecting fetal compromise, as opposed to the NST. d. The CST is slightly more expensive than the NST.

ANS: A The CST has several contraindications. The NST has a high rate of false-positive results and is less sensitive than the CST but relatively inexpensive.

The woman's family members are present when the nurse arrives for a postpartum and newborn visit. What should the nurse do? a. Observe the family members' interactions with the newborn and one another. b. Ask the woman to meet with her and the baby alone. c. Perform a brief assessment on all family members who are present. d. Reschedule the visit for another time so that the mother and infant can be privately assessed.

ANS: A The nurse should introduce her or himself to the client and to the other family members who are present. Family members in the home may be providing care and assistance to the mother and infant. However, this care may not be based on sound health practices. Nurses should take the opportunity to dispel myths while family members are present. The responsibility of the home care maternal-child nurse is to provide care to the new postpartum mother and to her infant, not to all family members. The nurse can politely ask about the other people in the home and their relationships with the mother. Unless an indication is given that the woman would prefer privacy, the visit may continue.

Due to the effects of cyclic ovarian changes in the breast, when is the best time for breast self-examination (BSE)? a. Between 5 and 7 days after menses ceases b. Day 1 of the endometrial cycle c. Midmenstrual cycle d. Any time during a shower or bath

ANS: A The physiologic alterations in breast size and activity reach their minimal level approximately 5 to 7 days after menstruation ceases. Therefore, BSE is best performed during this phase of the menstrual cycle. Day 1 of the endometrial cycle is too early to perform an accurate BSE. After the midmenstrual cycle, breasts are likely to become tender and increase in size, which is not the ideal time to perform BSE. Lying down after a shower or bath with a small towel under the shoulder of the side being examined is appropriate teaching for BSE. A secondary BSE may be performed while in the shower.

What is the primary role of the doula during labor? a. Helps the woman perform breathing techniques and provides support to the woman and her partner b. Checks the fetal monitor tracing for effects of the labor process on the fetal heart rate c. Takes the place of the father as a coach and support provider d. Administers pain medications as needed by the woman

ANS: A A doula is professionally trained to provide labor support, including physical, emotional, and informational support, to both the woman and her partner during labor and the birth. The doula does not become involved with clinical tasks. While the doula provides support, the goal is not to take the place of anyone in the mother's support group

What is important for the nurse to recognize regarding the new father and his acceptance of the pregnancy and preparation for childbirth? a. The father goes through three phases of acceptance of his own. b. The father's attachment to the fetus cannot be as strong as that of the mother because it does not start until after the birth. c. In the last 2 months of pregnancy, most expectant fathers suddenly get very protective of their established lifestyle and resist making changes to the home. d. Typically, men remain ambivalent about fatherhood right up to the birth of their child.

ANS: A A father typically goes through three phases of development to reach acceptance of fatherhood: the announcement phase, the moratorium phase, and the focusing phase. The father-child attachment can be as strong as the mother-child relationship and can also begin during pregnancy. During the last 2 months of the pregnancy, many expectant fathers work hard to improve the environment of the home for the child. Typically, the expectant father's ambivalence ends by the first trimester, and he progresses to adjusting to the reality of the situation and then to focusing on his role

A client's household consists of her husband, his mother, and another child. To which family configuration does this client belong? a. Multigenerational family b. Single-parent family c. Married-blended family d. Nuclear family

ANS: A A multigenerational family includes three or more generations living together. Both parents and a grandparent are living in this extended family. Single-parent families comprise an unmarried biologic or adoptive parent who may or may not be living with other adults. Married-blended families refer to those who are reconstructed after divorce. A nuclear family comprises male and female partners and their children living together as an independent unit.

A woman is undergoing a nipple-stimulated contraction stress test (CST). She is having contractions that occur every 3 minutes. The fetal heart rate (FHR) has a baseline heart rate of approximately 120 beats per minute without any decelerations. What is the correct interpretation of this test? a. Negative b. Positive c. Satisfactory d. Unsatisfactory

ANS: A Adequate uterine activity necessary for a CST consists of three contractions in a 10-minute time frame. If no decelerations are observed in the FHR pattern with the contractions, then the findings are considered to be negative. A positive CST indicates the presence of repetitive late FHR decelerations. The terms satisfactory or unsatisfactory are not applicable.

Which information regarding amniotic fluid is important for the nurse to understand? a. Amniotic fluid serves as a source of oral fluid and a repository for waste from the fetus. b. Volume of the amniotic fluid remains approximately the same throughout the term of a healthy pregnancy. c. The study of fetal cells in amniotic fluid yields little information. d. A volume of more than 2 L of amniotic fluid is associated with fetal renal abnormalities.

ANS: A Amniotic fluid serves as a source of oral fluid, serves as a repository for waste from the fetus, cushions the fetus, and helps maintain a constant body temperature. The volume of amniotic fluid constantly changes. The study of amniotic fluid yields information regarding the sex of the fetus and the number of chromosomes. Too much amniotic fluid (hydramnios) is associated with gastrointestinal and other abnormalities.

A 39-year-old primigravida woman believes that she is approximately 8 weeks pregnant, although she has had irregular menstrual periods all her life. She has a history of smoking approximately one pack of cigarettes a day; however, she tells the nurse that she is trying to cut down. Her laboratory data are within normal limits. What diagnostic technique would be useful at this time? a. Ultrasound examination b. Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening c. Amniocentesis d. Nonstress test (NST)

ANS: A An ultrasound examination could be performed to confirm the pregnancy and to determine the gestational age of the fetus. An MSAFP screening is performed at 16 to 18 weeks of gestation; therefore, it is too early in the woman's pregnancy to perform this diagnostic test. An amniocentesis is performed if the MSAFP levels are abnormal or if fetal or maternal anomalies are detected. An NST is performed to assess fetal well-being in the third trimester.

The client is being induced in response to worsening preeclampsia. She is also receiving magnesium sulfate. It appears that her labor has not become active, despite several hours of oxytocin administration. She asks the nurse, "Why is this taking so long?" What is the nurse's most appropriate response? a. "Since the magnesium is competing with the oxytocin, your labor is slowed." b. "I don't know why it is taking so long." c. "The length of labor varies for different women." d. "Your baby is just being stubborn.

ANS: A Because magnesium sulfate is a tocolytic agent, its use may increase the duration of labor. The amount of oxytocin needed to stimulate labor may be more than that needed for the woman who is not receiving magnesium sulfate. The nurse should explain to the client the effects of magnesium sulfate on the duration of labor. Although the length of labor varies for different women, the most likely reason this woman's labor is protracted is the tocolytic effects of magnesium sulfate. The behavior of the fetus has no bearing on the length of labor

With regard to medications, herbs, boosters, and other substances normally encountered by pregnant women, what is important for the nurse to be aware of? a. Both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that otherwise are harmless can be made hazardous by metabolic deficiencies of the fetus. b. The greatest danger of drug-caused developmental deficits in the fetus is observed in the final trimester. c. Killed-virus vaccines (e.g., tetanus) should not be administered during pregnancy, but live-virus vaccines (e.g., measles) are permissible. d. No convincing evidence exists that secondhand smoke is potentially dangerous to the fetus.

ANS: A Both prescription and OTC drugs that otherwise are harmless can be made hazardous by metabolic deficiencies of the fetus. This is especially true for new medications and combinations of drugs. The greatest danger of drug-caused developmental defects exists in the interval from fertilization through the first trimester, during which a woman may not realize that she is pregnant. Live-virus vaccines should be part of postpartum care; killed-virus vaccines may be administered during pregnancy. Secondhand smoke is associated with fetal growth restriction and increases in infant mortality.

Which intervention is most important when planning care for a client with severe gestational hypertension? a. Induction of labor is likely, as near term as possible. b. If at home, the woman should be confined to her bed, even with mild gestational hypertension. c. Special diet low in protein and salt should be initiated immediately. d. Vaginal birth is still an option, even in severe cases.

ANS: A By 34 weeks of gestation, the risk of continuing the pregnancy may be considered greater than the risks of a preterm birth. Strict bed rest is controversial for mild cases; some women in the hospital are even allowed to move around. Diet and fluid recommendations are essentially the same as for healthy pregnant women, although some authorities have suggested a diet high in protein. Women with severe gestational hypertension should expect a cesarean delivery.

Which is the most common technique used for the termination of a pregnancy in the second trimester? a. Dilation and evacuation (D&E) b. Methotrexate administration c. Prostaglandin administration d. Vacuum aspiration

ANS: A D&E can be performed at any point up to 20 weeks of gestation. It is more commonly performed between 13 and 16 weeks of gestation. Methotrexate is a cytotoxic drug that causes early abortion by preventing fetal cell division. Prostaglandins are also used for early abortion and work by dilating the cervix and initiating uterine wall contractions. Vacuum aspiration is used for abortions in the first trimester.

Which order should the nurse expect for a client admitted with a threatened abortion? a. Bed rest b. Administration of ritodrine IV c. Nothing by mouth (nil per os [NPO]) d. Narcotic analgesia every 3 hours, as needed

ANS: A Decreasing the woman's activity level may alleviate the bleeding and allow the pregnancy to continue. Ritodrine is not the first drug of choice for tocolytic medications. Having the woman placed on NPO is unnecessary. At times, dehydration may produce contractions; therefore, hydration is important. Narcotic analgesia will not decrease the contractions and may mask the severity of the contractions

A woman experiencing severe preeclampsia has been receiving magnesium sulfate by intravenous infusion for 8 hours. The nurse assesses the client and documents the following findings: temperature of 37.1° C, pulse rate of 96 beats per minute, respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute, BP of 155/112 mm Hg, 3+ DTRs, and no ankle clonus. The nurse calls the provider with an update. The nurse should anticipate an order for which medication? a. Hydralazine b. Magnesium sulfate bolus c. Diazepam d. Calcium gluconate

ANS: A Hydralazine is an antihypertensive medication commonly used to treat hypertension in severe preeclampsia. Typically, it is administered for a systolic BP higher than 160 mm Hg or a diastolic BP higher than 110 mm Hg. An additional bolus of magnesium sulfate may be ordered for increasing signs of CNS irritability related to severe preeclampsia (e.g., clonus) or if eclampsia develops. Diazepam is sometimes used to stop or shorten eclamptic seizures. Calcium gluconate is used as the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. The client is not currently displaying any signs or symptoms of magnesium toxicity.

The nurse sees a woman for the first time when she is 30 weeks pregnant. The client has smoked throughout the pregnancy, and fundal height measurements now are suggestive of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in the fetus. In addition to ultrasound to measure fetal size, what is another tool useful in confirming the diagnosis? a. Doppler blood flow analysis b. Contraction stress test (CST) c. Amniocentesis d. Daily fetal movement counts

ANS: A Doppler blood flow analysis allows the examiner to study the blood flow noninvasively in the fetus and the placenta. It is a helpful tool in the management of high-risk pregnancies because of IUGR, diabetes mellitus, multiple fetuses, or preterm labor. Because of the potential risk of inducing labor and causing fetal distress, a CST is not performed on a woman whose fetus is preterm. Indications for an amniocentesis include diagnosis of genetic disorders or congenital anomalies, assessment of pulmonary maturity, and the diagnosis of fetal hemolytic disease, not IUGR. Fetal kick count monitoring is performed to monitor the fetus in pregnancies complicated by conditions that may affect fetal oxygenation. Although this may be a useful tool at some point later in this woman's pregnancy, it is not used to diagnose IUGR.

Which nutritional recommendation regarding fluids is accurate? a. A woman's daily intake should be eight to ten glasses of water, milk, and/or juice. b. Coffee should be limited to no more than 2 cups, but tea and cocoa can be consumed without worry. c. Of the artificial sweeteners, only aspartame has not been associated with any maternity health concerns. d. Water with fluoride is especially encouraged because it reduces the child's risk of tooth decay.

ANS: A Eight to ten glasses is still the standard for fluids; however, they should be the right fluids. All beverages containing caffeine, including tea, cocoa, and some soft drinks, should be avoided or should be consumed only in limited amounts. Artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, have no ill effects on the normal mother or fetus. However, mothers with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid aspartame. Although no evidence indicates that prenatal fluoride consumption reduces childhood tooth decay, fluoride still helps the mother.

Which statement regarding emergency contraception is correct? a. Emergency contraception requires that the first dose be taken within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse. b. Emergency contraception may be taken right after ovulation. c. Emergency contraception has an effectiveness rate in preventing pregnancy of approximately 50%. d. Emergency contraception is commonly associated with the side effect of menorrhagia.

ANS: A Emergency contraception should be taken as soon as possible or within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. If taken before ovulation, follicular development is inhibited, which prevents ovulation. The risk of pregnancy is reduced by as much as 75%. The most common side effect of postcoital contraception is nausea

A woman asks the nurse, "What protects my baby's umbilical cord from being squashed while the baby's inside of me?" What is the nurse's best response? a. "Your baby's umbilical cord is surrounded by connective tissue called Wharton's jelly, which prevents compression of the blood vessels." b. "Your baby's umbilical cord floats around in blood and amniotic fluid." c. "You don't need to be worrying about things like that." d. "The umbilical cord is a group of blood vessels that are very well protected by the placenta."

ANS: A Explaining the structure and function of the umbilical cord is the most appropriate response. Connective tissue called Wharton's jelly surrounds the umbilical cord, prevents compression of the blood vessels, and ensures continued nourishment of the embryo or fetus. The umbilical cord does not float around in blood or fluid. Telling the client not to worry negates her need for information and discounts her feelings. The placenta does not protect the umbilical cord.

Which information regarding protein in the diet of a pregnant woman is most helpful to the client? a. Many protein-rich foods are also good sources of calcium, iron, and B vitamins. b. Many women need to increase their protein intake during pregnancy. c. As with carbohydrates and fat, no specific recommendations exist for the amount of protein in the diet. d. High-protein supplements can be used without risk by women on macrobiotic diets

ANS: A Good sources for protein, such as meat, milk, eggs, and cheese, have a lot of calcium and iron. Most women already eat a high-protein diet and do not need to increase their intake. Protein is sufficiently important that specific servings of meat and dairy are recommended. High-protein supplements are not recommended because they have been associated with an increased incidence of preterm births

What is the minimum level of practice that a reasonably prudent nurse is expected to provide? a. Standard of care b. Risk management c. Sentinel event d. Failure to rescue

ANS: A Guidelines for standards of care are published by various professional nursing organizations. Risk management identifies risks and establishes preventive practices, but it does not define the standard of care. Sentinel events are unexpected negative occurrences. They do not establish the standard of care. Failure to rescue is an evaluative process for nursing, but it does not define the standard of care

A recently graduated nurse is attempting to understand the reason for increasing health care spending in the United States. Which information gathered from research best explains the rationale for these higher costs compared with other developed countries? a. Higher rate of obesity among pregnant women b. Limited access to technology c. Increased use of health care services along with lower prices d. Homogeneity of the population

ANS: A Health care is one of the fastest growing sectors of the U.S. economy. Currently, 17.5% of the gross domestic product is spent on health care. Higher spending in the United States, as compared with 12 other industrialized countries, is related to higher prices and readily accessible technology along with greater obesity rates among women. More than one third of women in the United States are obese. In the population in the United States, 16% are uninsured and have limited access to health care. Maternal morbidity and mortality are directly related to racial disparities.

Which guidance might the nurse provide for a client with severe morning sickness? a. Trying lemonade and potato chips b. Drinking plenty of fluids early in the day c. Immediately brushing her teeth after eating d. Never snacking before bedtime

ANS: A Interestingly, some women can tolerate tart or salty foods when they are nauseated. Lemonade and potato chips are an ideal combination. The woman should avoid drinking too much when nausea is most likely, but she should increase her fluid levels later in the day when she feels better. The woman should avoid brushing her teeth immediately after eating. A small snack of cereal and milk or yogurt before bedtime may help the stomach in the morning.

A nurse caring for a pregnant client should be aware that the U.S. birth rate shows what trend? a. Births to unmarried women are more likely to have less favorable outcomes. b. Birth rates for women 40 to 44 years of age are declining. c. Cigarette smoking among pregnant women continues to increase. d. Rates of pregnancy and abortion among teenagers are lower in the United States than in any other industrialized country.

ANS: A LBW infants and preterm births are more likely because of the large number of teenagers in the unmarried group. Birth rates for women in their early 40s continue to increase. Fewer pregnant women smoke. Teen pregnancy and abortion rates are higher in the United States than in any other industrial country

Which analysis of maternal serum may predict chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus? a. Multiple-marker screening b. Lecithin-sphingomyelin ratio (L/S ratio) c. Biophysical profile (BPP) d. Blood type and crossmatch of maternal and fetal serum

ANS: A Maternal serum can be analyzed for abnormal levels of alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and estriol. The multiple-marker screening may predict chromosomal defects in the fetus. The L/S ratio is used to determine fetal lung maturity. A BPP is used for evaluating fetal status during the antepartum period. Five variables are used, but none is concerned with chromosomal problems. The blood type and crossmatch would not predict chromosomal defects in the fetus

Which neonatal complications are associated with hypertension in the mother? a. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and prematurity b. Seizures and cerebral hemorrhage c. Hepatic or renal dysfunction d. Placental abruption and DIC

ANS: A Neonatal complications are related to placental insufficiency and include IUGR, prematurity, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Seizures and cerebral hemorrhage are maternal complications. Hepatic and renal dysfunction are maternal complications of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. Placental abruption and DIC are conditions related to maternal morbidity and mortality.

Which nutrient's recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is higher during lactation than during pregnancy? a. Protein b. Iron c. Vitamin A d. Folic acid

ANS: A Nutrient needs for energy—protein, calcium, iodine, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin C—remain higher during lactation than during pregnancy. The need for iron is not higher during lactation than during pregnancy. A lactating woman does not have a greater requirement for vitamin A than a nonpregnant woman. Folic acid requirements are the highest during the first trimester of pregnancy.

The nurse caring for a pregnant client is evaluating health teaching regarding fetal circulation. Which statement from the client reassures the nurse that the teaching has been effective? a. "Optimal fetal circulation is achieved when I am in the side-lying position." b. "Optimal fetal circulation is achieved when I am on my back with a pillow under my knees." c. "Optimal fetal circulation is achieved when the head of the bed is elevated." d. "Optimal fetal circulation is achieved when I am on my abdomen."

ANS: A Optimal circulation is achieved when the woman is lying at rest on her side. Decreased uterine circulation may lead to intrauterine growth restriction. Previously, it was believed that the left lateral position promoted maternal cardiac output, enhancing blood flow to the fetus. However, it is now known that the side-lying position enhances uteroplacental blood flow. If a woman lies on her back with the pressure of the uterus compressing the vena cava, then blood return to the right atrium is diminished. Although having the head of the bed elevated is recommended and ideal for later in pregnancy, the woman still must maintain a lateral tilt to the pelvis to avoid compressing the vena cava. Many women find lying on their abdomen uncomfortable as pregnancy advances. Side-lying is the ideal position to promote blood flow to the fetus

Screening at 24 weeks of gestation reveals that a pregnant woman is experiencing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In planning her care, the nurse and the client mutually agree that an expected outcome is to prevent injury to the fetus because of GDM. This fetus is at the greatest risk for which condition? a. Macrosomia b. Congenital anomalies of the central nervous system c. Preterm birth d. Low birth weight

ANS: A Poor glycemic control later in pregnancy increases the rate of fetal macrosomia. Poor glycemic control during the preconception time frame and into the early weeks of the pregnancy is associated with congenital anomalies. Preterm labor or birth is more likely to occur with severe diabetes and is the greatest risk in women with pregestational diabetes. Increased weight, or macrosomia, is the greatest risk factor for this fetus.

What nursing diagnosis is the most appropriate for a woman experiencing severe preeclampsia? a. Potential for injury to mother and fetus, related to central nervous system (CNS) irritability b. Potential for reduced gas exchange c. Potential for inadequate fluid volume, related to increased sodium retention secondary to the administration of magnesium sulfate d. Potential for increased cardiac output, related to the use of antihypertensive drugs

ANS: A Potential for injury is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for this client scenario. Gas exchange is more likely to become reduced, attributable to pulmonary edema. A potential for increased, not decreased, fluid volume, related to increased sodium retention, and a potential for decreased, not increased, cardiac output, related to the use of antihypertensive drugs, also is increased.

What is the most common medical complication of pregnancy? a. Hypertension b. Hyperemesis gravidarum c. Hemorrhagic complications d. Infections

ANS: A Preeclampsia and eclampsia are two noted deadly forms of hypertension. A large percentage of pregnant women will have nausea and vomiting, but a relatively few will have the severe form called hyperemesis gravidarum. Hemorrhagic complications are the second most common medical complication of pregnancy; hypertension is the most common. Infection is a risk factor for preeclampsia

Which statement concerning the complication of maternal diabetes is the most accurate? a. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) can lead to fetal death at any time during pregnancy. b. Hydramnios occurs approximately twice as often in diabetic pregnancies than in nondiabetic pregnancies. c. Infections occur about as often and are considered about as serious in both diabetic and nondiabetic pregnancies. d. Even mild-to-moderate hypoglycemic episodes can have significant effects on fetal well-being.

ANS: A Prompt treatment of DKA is necessary to save the fetus and the mother. Hydramnios occurs 10 times more often in diabetic pregnancies. Infections are more common and more serious in pregnant women with diabetes. Mild-to-moderate hypoglycemic episodes do not appear to have significant effects on fetal well-being.

Maternity nurses can enhance communication among health care providers by using the SBAR technique. The acronym SBAR stands for what? a. Situation, background, assessment, recommendation b. Situation, baseline, assessment, recommendation c. Subjective, background, analysis, recommendation d. Subjective, background, analysis, review

ANS: A SBAR is an easy-to-remember, useful, and concrete mechanism for communicating important information that requires a clinician's immediate attention. Baseline is not discussed as part of SBAR. Subjective and analysis are not specific to the SBAR acronym. Subjective, analysis, and review are not specific to the SBAR acronym.

Why might it be more difficult to diagnose appendicitis during pregnancy? a. The appendix is displaced upward and laterally, high and to the right. b. The appendix is displaced upward and laterally, high and to the left. c. The appendix is deep at the McBurney's point. d. The appendix is displaced downward and laterally, low and to the right.

ANS: A The appendix is displaced high and to the right, not to the left. It is displaced beyond the McBurney's point and is not displaced in a downward direction.

A woman has chosen the calendar method of conception control. Which is the most important action the nurse should perform during the assessment process in preparation to discuss the implementation of this method? a. Obtain a history of the woman's menstrual cycle lengths for the past 6 to 12 months. b. Determine the client's weight gain and loss pattern for the previous year. c. Examine skin pigmentation and hair texture for hormonal changes. d. Explore the client's previous experiences with conception control.

ANS: A The calendar method of conception control is based on the number of days in each cycle, counting from the first day of menses. The fertile period is determined after the lengths of menstrual cycles have been accurately recorded for 6 months. Weight gain or loss may be partly related to hormonal fluctuations, but it has no bearing on the use of the calendar method. Integumentary changes may be related to hormonal changes, but they are not indicators for use of the calendar method. Exploring previous experiences with conception control may demonstrate client understanding and compliancy, but these experiences are not the most important aspect to assess for the discussion of the calendar method.

In caring for an immediate postpartum client, the nurse notes petechiae and oozing from her intravenous (IV) site. The client would be closely monitored for which clotting disorder? a. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) b. Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) c. Hemorrhage d. HELLP syndrome

ANS: A The diagnosis of DIC is made according to clinical findings and laboratory markers. A physical examination reveals unusual bleeding. Petechiae may appear around a blood pressure cuff on the woman's arm. Excessive bleeding may occur from the site of slight trauma such as venipuncture sites. These symptoms are not associated with AFE, nor is AFE a bleeding disorder. Hemorrhage occurs for a variety of reasons in the postpartum client. These symptoms are associated with DIC. Hemorrhage would be a finding associated with DIC and is not a clotting disorder in and of itself. HELLP syndrome is not a clotting disorder, but it may contribute to the clotting disorder DIC.

The various systems and organs of the fetus develop at different stages. Which statement is most accurate? a. Cardiovascular system is the first organ system to function in the developing human. b. Hematopoiesis originating in the yolk sac begins in the liver at 10 weeks of gestation. c. Body changes from straight to C-shape occurs at 8 weeks of gestation. d. Gastrointestinal system is mature at 32 weeks of gestation.

ANS: A The heart is developmentally complete by the end of the embryonic stage. Hematopoiesis begins in the liver during the sixth week. The body becomes C-shaped at 21 weeks of gestation. The gastrointestinal system is complete at 36 weeks of gestation.

Using social media technology, nurses can link with other nurses who may share similar interests, insights about practice, and advocate for clients. Which factor is the most concerning pitfall for nurses using this technology? a. Violation of client privacy and confidentiality b. Institutions and colleagues who may be cast in an unfavorable light c. Unintended negative consequences for using social media d. Lack of institutional policy governing online contact

ANS: A The most significant pitfall for nurses using this technology is the violation of client privacy and confidentiality. Furthermore, institutions and colleagues can be cast in an unfavorable light with negative consequences for those posting information. Nursing students have been expelled from school and nurses have been fired or reprimanded by their Board of Nursing for injudicious posts. The American Nurses Association has published six principles for social networking and the nurse. All institutions should have policies guiding the use of social media, and the nurse should be familiar with these guidelines.

Which major neonatal complication is carefully monitored after the birth of the infant of a diabetic mother? a. Hypoglycemia b. Hypercalcemia c. Hypobilirubinemia d. Hypoinsulinemia

ANS: A The neonate is at highest risk for hypoglycemia because fetal insulin production is accelerated during pregnancy to metabolize excessive glucose from the mother. At birth, the maternal glucose supply stops and the neonatal insulin exceeds the available glucose, thus leading to hypoglycemia. Hypocalcemia is associated with preterm birth, birth trauma, and asphyxia, all common problems of the infant of a diabetic mother. Excess erythrocytes are broken down after birth, and large amounts of bilirubin are released into the neonate's circulation, with resulting hyperbilirubinemia. Because fetal insulin production is accelerated during pregnancy, hyperinsulinemia develops in the neonate.

A pregnant woman's biophysical profile (BPP) score is 8. She asks the nurse to explain the results. How should the nurse respond initially? a. "The test results are within normal limits." b. "Immediate delivery by cesarean birth is being considered." c. "Further testing will be performed to determine the meaning of this score." d. "An obstetric specialist will evaluate the results of this profile and, within the next week, will inform you of your options regarding delivery."

ANS: A The normal biophysical score ranges from 8 to 10 points if the amniotic fluid volume is adequate. A normal score allows conservative treatment of high-risk clients. Delivery can be delayed if fetal well-being is indicated. Scores less than 4 should be investigated, and delivery could be initiated sooner than planned. The results of the BPP are usually available immediately after the procedure is performed. Since this score is within normal range, no further testing is required at this time.

A client at 34 weeks of gestation seeks guidance from the nurse regarding personal hygiene. Which information should the nurse provide? a. Tub bathing is permitted even in late pregnancy unless membranes have ruptured. b. The perineum should be wiped from back to front. c. Bubble bath and bath oils are permissible because they add an extra soothing and cleansing action to the bath. d. Expectant mothers should use specially treated soap to cleanse the nipples.

ANS: A The primary danger from taking baths is falling in the tub. The perineum should be wiped from front to back. Bubble baths and bath oils should be avoided because they may irritate the urethra. Soap, alcohol, ointments, and tinctures should not be used to cleanse the nipples because they remove protective oils.

In evaluating the level of a pregnant woman's risk of having a low-birth-weight (LBW) infant, which factor is the most important for the nurse to consider? a. African-American race b. Cigarette smoking c. Poor nutritional status d. Limited maternal education

ANS: A The rise in the overall LBW rates were due to increases in LBW births to non-Hispanic black women (13.35%) and Hispanic women (7.21%); non-Hispanic black infants are almost twice as likely as non-Hispanic white infants to be of LBW and to die in the first year of life.. Race is a nonmodifiable risk factor. Cigarette smoking is an important factor in potential infant mortality rates, but it is not the most important. Additionally, smoking is a modifiable risk factor. Poor nutrition is an important factor in potential infant mortality rates, but it is not the most important. Additionally, nutritional status is a modifiable risk factor. Maternal education is an important factor in potential infant mortality rates, but it is not the most important. Additionally, maternal education is a modifiable risk factor.

Which methods help alleviate the problems associated with access to health care for the maternity client? (Select all that apply.) a. Provide transportation to prenatal visits. b. Provide child care to enable a pregnant woman to keep prenatal visits. c. Increase the number of providers that will care for Medicaid clients. d. Provide low-cost or no-cost health care insurance. e. Provide job training

ANS: A, B, C, D Lack of transportation to prenatal visits, child care, access to skilled obstetric providers, and affordable health insurance are prohibitive factors associated with the lack of prenatal care. Although job training may result in employment and income, the likelihood of significant changes during the time frame of the pregnancy is remote

While completing an assessment of a homeless woman, the nurse should be aware of which of the following ailments this client is at a higher risk to develop? (Select all that apply.) a. Infectious diseases b. Chronic illness c. Anemia d. Hyperthermia e. Substance abuse

ANS: A, B, C, E Poor living conditions contribute to higher rates of infectious disease. Many homeless individuals engage in sexual favors, which may expose them to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Poor nutrition can lead to anemia. Lifestyle factors also contribute to chronic illness. Exposure to cold temperatures and harsh environmental surroundings may lead to hypothermia. Many homeless people turn to alcohol and other substances as coping mechanisms.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law by President Obama in early 2010. The Act provides some immediate benefits, and other provisions will take place over the next several years. The practicing nurse should have a thorough understanding of how these changes will benefit his or her clients. Which outcomes are goals of the ACA? (Select all that apply.) a. Insurance affordability b. Improve public health c. Treatment of illness d. Elimination of Medicare and Medicaid e. Cost containment

ANS: A, B, E The ACA goals are to make insurance more affordable, contain costs, and strengthen Medicare and Medicaid. The Act contains provisions that promote the prevention of illness and improve access to public health. The ultimate goal of the Act is to improve the quality of care for all Americans while reducing waste, fraud, and abuse of the current system

A 3-year-old girl's mother is 6 months pregnant. What concern is this child most likely to verbalize? a. How the baby will get out? b. How will the baby eat? c. Will you die having the baby? d. What color eyes will the baby have?

ANS: B

A client with maternal phenylketonuria (PKU) has come to the obstetrical clinic to begin prenatal care. Why would this preexisting condition result in the need for closer monitoring during pregnancy? a. PKU is a recognized cause of preterm labor. b. The fetus may develop cognitive problems. c. A pregnant woman is more likely to die without strict dietary control. d. Women with PKU are usually mentally handicapped and should not reproduce.

ANS: B

A patient in her first trimester complains of nausea and vomiting. She asks, "Why does this happen?" What is the nurse's best response? a. "Nausea and vomiting are due to an increase in gastric motility." b. "Nausea and vomiting may be due to changes in hormones." c. "Nausea and vomiting are related to an increase in glucose levels." d. "Nausea and vomiting are caused by a decrease in gastric secretions."

ANS: B

A perinatal nurse is giving discharge instructions to a woman, status post-suction, and curettage secondary to a hydatidiform mole. The woman asks why she must take oral contraceptives for the next 12 months. What is the best response by the nurse? a. "If you get pregnant within 1 year, the chance of a successful pregnancy is very small. Therefore, if you desire a future pregnancy, it would be better for you to use the most reliable method of contraception available." b. "The major risk to you after a molar pregnancy is a type of cancer that can be diagnosed only by measuring the same hormone that your body produces during pregnancy. If you were to get pregnant, then it would make the diagnosis of this cancer more difficult." c. "If you can avoid a pregnancy for the next year, the chance of developing a second molar pregnancy is rare. Therefore, to improve your chance of a successful pregnancy, not getting pregnant at this time is best." d. "Oral contraceptives are the only form of birth control that will prevent a recurrence of a molar pregnancy."

ANS: B

An 18-year-old client who has reached 16 weeks of gestation was recently diagnosed with pre-gestational diabetes. She attends her centering appointment accompanied by one of her girlfriends. This young woman appears more concerned about how her pregnancy will affect her social life than her recent diagnosis of diabetes. Several nursing diagnoses are applicable to assist in planning adequate care. What is the most appropriate diagnosis at this time? a. Potential for injury to the fetus related to birth trauma b. Lack of understanding related to diabetic pregnancy management c. Lack of understanding related to insulin administration d. Potential for injury to the mother related to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia

ANS: B

Assessment of a woman's nutritional status includes a diet history, medication regimen, physical examination, and relevant laboratory tests. Which finding might require consultation to a higher level of care? a. Oral contraceptive use may interfere with the absorption of iron. b. Illnesses that have created nutritional deficits, such as PKU, may require nutritional care before conception. c. The woman's socioeconomic status and educational level are not relevant to her examination; they are the province of the social worker. d. Testing for diabetes is the only nutrition-related laboratory test most pregnant women need.

ANS: B

Bell palsy is an acute idiopathic facial paralysis, the cause for which remains unknown. Which statement regarding this condition is correct? a. Bell palsy is the sudden development of bilateral facial weakness. b. Women with Bell palsy have an increased risk for hypertension. c. Pregnant women are affected twice as often as nonpregnant women. d. Bell palsy occurs most frequently in the first trimester

ANS: B

The musculoskeletal system adapts to the changes that occur throughout the pregnancy. Which musculoskeletal alteration should the client expect? a. Her center of gravity will shift backward. b. She will have increased lordosis. c. She will have increased abdominal muscle tone. d. She will notice decreased mobility of her pelvic joints.

ANS: B

What type of cultural concern is the most likely deterrent to many women seeking prenatal care? a. Religion b. Modesty c. Ignorance d. Belief that physicians are evil

ANS: B

Which finding in the urinalysis of a pregnant woman is considered a variation of normal? a. Proteinuria b. Glycosuria c. Bacteria in the urine d. Ketones in the urine

ANS: B

Which statement made by a lactating woman leads the nurse to believe that the client might have lactose intolerance? a. "I always have heartburn after I drink milk." b. "If I drink more than a cup of milk, I usually have abdominal cramps and bloating." c. "Drinking milk usually makes me break out in hives." d. "Sometimes I notice that I have bad breath after I drink a cup of milk."

ANS: B

Which statement regarding the probable signs of pregnancy is most accurate? a. Determined by ultrasound b. Observed by the health care provider c. Reported by the client d. Confirmed by diagnostic tests

ANS: B

Which sign of a potential complication is the most important for the nurse to share with the client? a. Constipation b. Alteration in the pattern of fetal movement c. Heart palpitations d. Edema in the ankles and feet at the end of the day

ANS: B An alteration in the pattern or amount of fetal movement may indicate fetal jeopardy. Constipation, heart palpitations, and ankle and foot edema are normal discomforts of pregnancy that occur in the second and third trimesters.

A 31-year-old woman believes that she may be pregnant. She took an over-the-counter (OTC) pregnancy test 1 week ago after missing her period; the test was positive. During her assessment interview, the nurse asks about the woman's last menstrual period and whether she is taking any medications. The client states that she takes medicine for epilepsy. She has been under considerable stress lately at work and has not been sleeping well. Her physical examination does not indicate that she is pregnant. She has an ultrasound scan, which confirms that she is not pregnant. What is the most likely cause of the false-positive pregnancy test result? a. The pregnancy test was taken too early. b. Anticonvulsant medications may cause the false-positive test result. c. The woman has a fibroid tumor. d. She has been under considerable stress and has a hormone imbalance.

ANS: B Anticonvulsants may cause false-positive pregnancy test results. OTC pregnancy tests use enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technology, which can yield positive results as soon as 4 days after implantation. Implantation occurs 6 to 10 days after conception. If the woman were pregnant, then she would be into her third week at this point (having missed her period 1 week ago). Fibroid tumors do not produce hormones and have no bearing on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) pregnancy tests. Although stress may interrupt normal hormone cycles (menstrual cycles), it does not affect hCG levels or produce positive pregnancy test results.

Which contraceptive method should the nurse identify as protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)? a. Periodic abstinence b. Barrier methods c. Hormonal methods d. Same protection with all methods

ANS: B Barrier methods, such as condoms, protect against STIs and the HIV the best of all contraceptive methods. Periodic abstinence and hormonal methods, such as birth control pills, offer no protection against STIs or the HIV.

Which key factors play the most powerful role in the behaviors of individuals and families? a. Rituals and customs b. Beliefs and values c. Boundaries and channels d. Socialization processes

ANS: B Beliefs and values are the most prevalent factors in the decision-making and problem-solving behaviors of individuals and families. This prevalence is particularly true during times of stress and illness. Although culture may play a part in the decision-making process of a family, ultimately, values and beliefs dictate the course of action taken by family members. Boundaries and channels affect the relationship between the family members and the health care team, not the decisions within the family. Socialization processes may help families with interactions within the community, but they are not the criteria used for decision making within the family

Which statement concerning neurologic and sensory development in the fetus is correct? a. Brain waves have been recorded on an electroencephalogram as early as the end of the first trimester (12 weeks of gestation). b. Fetuses respond to sound by 24 weeks of gestation and can be soothed by the sound of the mother's voice. c. Eyes are first receptive to light at 34 to 36 weeks of gestation. d. At term, the fetal brain is at least one third the size of an adult brain

ANS: B Hearing develops early and is fully developed at birth. Brain waves have been recorded at week 8. Eyes are receptive to light at 28 weeks of gestation. The fetal brain is approximately one fourth the size of an adult brain.

Which statement best exemplifies contemporary maternity nursing? a. Use of midwives for all vaginal deliveries b. Family-centered care c. Free-standing birth clinics d. Physician-driven care

ANS: B Contemporary maternity nursing focuses on the family's needs and desires. Fathers, partners, grandparents, and siblings may be present for the birth and participate in activities such as cutting the baby's umbilical cord. Both midwives and physicians perform vaginal deliveries. Free-standing clinics are an example of alternative birth options. Contemporary maternity nursing is driven by the relationship between nurses and their clients

What is the primary difference between hospital care and home health care? a. Home care is routinely and continuously delivered by professional staff. b. Home care is delivered on an intermittent basis by professional staff. c. Home care is delivered for emergency conditions. d. Home care is not available 24 hours a day.

ANS: B Home care is generally delivered on an intermittent basis by professional staff members. The primary difference between health care in a hospital and home care is the absence of the continuous presence of professional health care providers in a client's home. In a true emergency, the client should be directed to call 9-1-1 or to report to the nearest hospital's emergency department. Generally, home health care entails intermittent care by a professional who visits the client's home for a particular reason and provides on-site care for periods shorter than 4 hours at a time.

An Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein Screening (MSAFP) screening indicates an elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein. The test is repeated, and again the level is reported as higher than normal. What is the next step in the assessment sequence to determine the well-being of the fetus? a. Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) b. Ultrasound c. Biophysical profile (BPP) d. Amniocentesis

ANS: B If MSAFP findings are abnormal, then follow-up procedures include genetic counseling for families with a history of NTD, repeated MSAFP screenings, an ultrasound examination, and possibly amniocentesis. Indications for the use of PUBS include prenatal diagnosis of inherited blood disorders, karyotyping of malformed fetuses, detection of fetal infection, determination of the acid-base status of fetuses with IUGR, and assessment and treatment of isoimmunization and thrombocytopenia in the fetus. A BPP is a method of assessing fetal well-being in the third trimester. Before an amniocentesis, the client would have an ultrasound for direct visualization of the fetus.

Which maternal condition always necessitates delivery by cesarean birth? a. Marginal placenta previa b. Complete placenta previa c. Ectopic pregnancy d. Eclampsia

ANS: B In complete placenta previa, the placenta completely covers the cervical os. A cesarean birth is the acceptable method of delivery. The risk of fetal death occurring is due to preterm birth. If the previa is marginal (i.e., 2 cm or greater away from the cervical os), then labor can be attempted. A cesarean birth is not indicated for an ectopic pregnancy. Labor can be safely induced if the eclampsia is under control.

The nurse who is caring for a woman hospitalized for hyperemesis gravidarum would expect the initial treatment to involve what? a. Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation b. Intravenous (IV) therapy to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances c. Antiemetic medication, such as pyridoxine, to control nausea and vomiting d. Enteral nutrition to correct nutritional deficits

ANS: B Initially, the woman who is unable to down clear liquids by mouth requires IV therapy to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Corticosteroids have been successfully used to treat refractory hyperemesis gravidarum, but they are not the expected initial treatment for this disorder. Pyridoxine is vitamin B6, not an antiemetic medication. Promethazine, a common antiemetic, may be prescribed. In severe cases of hyperemesis gravidarum, enteral nutrition via a feeding tube may be necessary to correct maternal nutritional deprivation but is not the initial treatment for this client.

The pancreas forms in the foregut during the 5th to 8th week of gestation. A client with poorly controlled gestational diabetes asks the nurse what the effects of her condition will be on the fetus. What is the best response by the nurse? Poorly controlled maternal gestational diabetes will: a. produce fetal hypoglycemia. b. result in a macrocosmic fetus. c. result in a microcosmic fetus. d. enhance lung maturation.

ANS: B Insulin is produced by week 20 of gestation. In the fetus of a mother with uncontrolled diabetes, maternal hypoglycemia produces fetal hypoglycemia and macrocosmia results. Hyperinsulinemia blocks lung maturation, placing the neonate at risk for respiratory distress

What is the correct terminology for an abortion in which the fetus dies but is retained within the uterus? a. Inevitable abortion b. Missed abortion c. Incomplete abortion d. Threatened abortion

ANS: B Missed abortion refers to the retention of a dead fetus in the uterus. An inevitable abortion means that the cervix is dilating with the contractions. An incomplete abortion means that not all of the products of conception were expelled. With a threatened abortion, the woman has cramping and bleeding but no cervical dilation.

A male client asks the nurse why it is better to purchase condoms that are not lubricated with nonoxynol-9 (a common spermicide). Which response by the nurse is the most accurate? a. "The lubricant prevents vaginal irritation." b. "Nonoxynol-9 does not provide protection against STIs as originally thought" c. "The additional lubrication improves sex." d. "Nonoxynol-9 improves penile sensitivity."

ANS: B Nonoxynol-9 does not provide protection against STIs as originally thought; it has also been linked to an increase in the transmission of the HIV and can cause genital lesions. Nonoxynol-9 may cause vaginal irritation, has no effect on the quality of sexual activity, and has no effect on penile sensitivity.

Maternal nutritional status is an especially significant factor of the many that influence the outcome of pregnancy. Why is this the case? a. Maternal nutritional status is extremely difficult to adjust because of an individual's ingrained eating habits. b. Adequate nutrition is an important preventive measure for a variety of problems. c. Women love obsessing about their weight and diets. d. A woman's preconception weight becomes irrelevant.

ANS: B Nutritional status draws so much attention not only for its effect on a healthy pregnancy and birth but also because significant changes are within relatively easy reach. Pregnancy is a time when many women are motivated to learn about adequate nutrition and make changes to their diet that will benefit their baby. Pregnancy is not the time to begin a weight loss diet. Clients and their caregivers should still be concerned with appropriate weight gain.

In contrast to placenta previa, what is the most prevalent clinical manifestation of abruptio placentae? a. Bleeding b. Intense abdominal pain c. Uterine activity d. Cramping

ANS: B Pain is absent with placenta previa and may be agonizing with abruptio placentae. Bleeding may be present in varying degrees for both placental conditions. Uterine activity and cramping may be present with both placental conditions.

Which laboratory marker is indicative of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)? a. Bleeding time of 10 minutes b. Presence of fibrin split products c. Thrombocytopenia d. Hypofibrinogenemia

ANS: B Degradation of fibrin leads to the accumulation of multiple fibrin clots throughout the body's vasculature. Bleeding time in DIC is normal. Low platelets may occur but are not indicative of DIC because they may be the result from other coagulopathies. Hypofibrinogenemia occurs with DIC.

A pregnant woman at 18 weeks of gestation calls the clinic to report that she has been experiencing occasional backaches of mild-to-moderate intensity. Which intervention should the nurse recommend? a. Kegel exercises b. Pelvic rock exercises c. Softer mattress d. Bed rest for 24 hours

ANS: B Pelvic rock exercises may help stretch and strengthen the abdominal and lower back muscles and relieve low back pain. Stretching and other exercises to relieve back pain should be performed several times a day. Kegel exercises increase the tone of the pelvic area, not the back. A softer mattress may not provide the support needed to maintain proper alignment of the spine and may contribute to back pain.

The nurse is planning the care for a laboring client with diabetes mellitus. This client is at greater risk for which clinical finding? a. Oligohydramnios b. Polyhydramnios c. Postterm pregnancy d. Chromosomal abnormalities

ANS: B Polyhydramnios or amniotic fluid in excess of 2000 ml is 10 times more likely to occur in the client with diabetes mellitus rather than in nondiabetic pregnancies. This complication places the mother at risk for premature rupture of membranes, premature labor, and postpartum hemorrhage. Prolonged rupture of membranes, IUGR, intrauterine fetal death, and renal agenesis (Potter syndrome) place the client at risk for developing oligohydramnios. Anencephaly, placental insufficiency, and perinatal hypoxia contribute to the risk for postterm pregnancy. Maternal age older than 35 years and balanced translocation (maternal and paternal) are risk factors for chromosomal abnormalities.

Ideally, when should prenatal care begin? a. Before the first missed menstrual period b. After the first missed menstrual period c. After the second missed menstrual period d. After the third missed menstrual period

ANS: B Prenatal care should begin soon after the first missed menstrual period. This offers the greatest opportunities to ensure the health of the expectant mother and her infant. Prenatal care before missing the first menstrual period is too early. It is unlikely the woman is even aware of the pregnancy. Ideally, prenatal visits should begin soon after the first period is missed. Beginning prenatal care after the third missed menstrual period is too late. The woman will have completed the first trimester by that time.

A 41-week pregnant multigravida arrives at the labor and delivery unit after testing indicated that her fetus could be experiencing some difficulties in utero. Which diagnostic tool yields more detailed information about the condition of the fetus? a. Ultrasound for fetal anomalies b. Biophysical profile (BPP) c. MSAFP screening d. Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS)

ANS: B Real-time ultrasound permits a detailed assessment of the physical and physiologic characteristics of the developing fetus and a cataloging of normal and abnormal biophysical responses to stimuli. The BPP is a noninvasive, dynamic assessment of a fetus that is based on acute and chronic markers of fetal disease. An ultrasound for fetal anomalies would most likely have occurred earlier in the pregnancy. It is too late in the pregnancy to perform an MSAFP. Furthermore, it does not provide information related to fetal well-being. Indications for PUBS include prenatal diagnosis or inherited blood disorders, karyotyping of malformed fetuses, detection of fetal infection, determination of the acid-base status of the fetus with IUGR, and assessment and treatment of isoimmunization and thrombocytopenia in the fetus.

The client is instructed to place her thumb and forefinger on the areola and gently press inward. What is the purpose of this exercise? a. To check the sensitivity of the nipples b. To determine whether the nipple is everted or inverted c. To calculate the adipose buildup in the abdomen d. To see whether the fetus has become inactive

ANS: B Sometimes known as the pinch test, this exercise is used to determine whether the nipple is everted or inverted. Nipples must be everted to allow breastfeeding to occur naturally. The pinch does not determine the level of sensitivity of the nipples, nor is it not used to determine the level of adipose tissue in the abdomen. Fetal activity is not determined by using the pinch test.

Which information is most important to provide to the client interested in using the lactational amenorrhea method for contraception? a. LAM is effective until the infant is 9 months of age. b. This popular method of birth control works best if the mother is exclusively breastfeeding. c. Its typical failure rate is 5%. d. Feeding intervals should be 6 hours during the day.

ANS: B The LAM works best if the mother is exclusively or almost exclusively breastfeeding. Disruption of the breastfeeding pattern increases the risk of pregnancy. After the infant is 6 months of age or menstrual flow has resumed, effectiveness decreases. The typical failure rate is 1% to 2%. Feeding intervals should be no greater than 4 hours during the day and 6 hours at night.

A 26-year-old pregnant woman, gravida 2, para 1-0-0-1, is 28 weeks pregnant when she experiences bright red, painless vaginal bleeding. On her arrival at the hospital, which diagnostic procedure will the client most likely have performed? a. Amniocentesis for fetal lung maturity b. Transvaginal ultrasound for placental location c. Contraction stress test (CST) d. Internal fetal monitoring

ANS: B The presence of painless bleeding should always alert the health care team to the possibility of placenta previa, which can be confirmed through ultrasonography. Amniocentesis is not performed on a woman who is experiencing bleeding. In the event of an imminent delivery, the fetus is presumed to have immature lungs at this gestational age, and the mother is given corticosteroids to aid in fetal lung maturity. A CST is not performed at a preterm gestational age. Furthermore, bleeding is a contraindication to a CST. Internal fetal monitoring is also contraindicated in the presence of bleeding.

Cardiac output increases up to 50% by the 32nd week of pregnancy. What is the rationale for this change? a. To compensate for the decreased renal plasma flow b. To provide adequate perfusion of the placenta c. To eliminate metabolic wastes of the mother d. To prevent maternal and fetal dehydration

ANS: B The primary function of increased vascular volume is to transport oxygen and nutrients to the fetus via the placenta. Renal plasma flow increases during pregnancy. Assisting with pulling metabolic wastes from the fetus for maternal excretion is one purpose of the increased vascular volume.

A 30-year-old gravida 3, para 2-0-0-2 is at 18 weeks of gestation. Which screening test should the nurse recommend be ordered for this client? a. Biophysical profile (BPP) b. Chorionic villi sampling c. Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein Screening (MSAFP) screening d. Screening for diabetes mellitus

ANS: C The biochemical assessment MSAFP test is performed from week 15 to week 20 of gestation (weeks 16 to 18 are ideal). A BPP is a method of biophysical assessment of fetal well-being in the third trimester. Chorionic villi sampling is a biochemical assessment of the fetus that should be performed from the 10th to 12th weeks of gestation. Screening for diabetes mellitus begins with the first prenatal visit.

Of which physiologic alteration of the uterus during pregnancy is it important for the nurse to alert the patient? a. Lightening occurs near the end of the second trimester as the uterus rises into a different position. b. Woman's increased urinary frequency in the first trimester is the result of exaggerated uterine anti-reflexion caused by softening. c. Braxton Hicks contractions become more painful in the third trimester, particularly if the woman tries to exercise. d. Uterine souffle is the movement of the fetus.

ANS: B The softening of the lower uterine segment is called the Hegar sign. In this position, the uterine fundus presses on the bladder, causing urinary frequency that is a normal change of pregnancy. Lightening occurs in the last 2 weeks of pregnancy, when the fetus descends. Braxton Hicks contractions become more defined in the final trimester but are not painful. Walking or exercise usually causes them to stop. The uterine souffle is the sound made by blood in the uterine arteries; it can be heard with a fetal stethoscope.

The nurse is providing health education to a pregnant client regarding the cardiovascular system. Which information is correct and important to share? a. A pregnant woman experiencing disturbed cardiac rhythm requires close medical and obstetric observation no matter how healthy she may appear otherwise. b. Changes in heart size and position and increases in blood volume create auditory changes from 20 weeks of gestation to term. c. Palpitations are twice as likely to occur in twin gestations. d. All of the above changes will likely occur.

ANS: B These auscultatory changes should be discernible after 20 weeks of gestation. A healthy woman with no underlying heart disease does not need any therapy. The maternal heart rate increases in the third trimester, but palpitations may not necessarily occur, let alone double. Auditory changes are discernible at 20 weeks of gestation.

Which clinical finding is a major use of ultrasonography in the first trimester? a. Amniotic fluid volume b. Presence of maternal abnormalities c. Placental location and maturity d. Cervical length

ANS: B Ultrasonography can detect certain uterine abnormalities such as bicornuate uterus, fibroids, and ovarian cysts. Amniotic fluid volume, placental location and maturity, and cervical length are not available via ultrasonography until the second or third trimester.

When the services of an interpreter are needed, which is the most important factor for the nurse to consider? a. Using a family member who is fluent in both languages b. Using an interpreter who is certified, and documenting the person's name in the nursing notes c. Directing questions only to the interpreter d. Using an interpreter only in an emergency

ANS: B Using a certified interpreter ensures that the standards of care are met and that the information exchanged is reliable and unaltered. The name of the interpreter should be documented for legal purposes. Asking a family member to interpret may not be appropriate, although many health care personnel must adopt this approach in an emergency. Furthermore, most states require that certified interpreters be used when possible. When using an interpreter, the nurse should direct questions to the client. The interpreter is simply a means by which the nurse communicates with the client. Every attempt should be made to contact an interpreter whenever one is needed. During an emergency, health care workers often rely on information interpreted by family members. This information may be private and should be protected under the rules established by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Furthermore, family members may skew information or may not be able to interpret the exact information the nurse is trying to obtain

Which statement best describes the rationale for the physiologic anemia that occurs during pregnancy? a. Physiologic anemia involves an inadequate intake of iron. b. Dilution of hemoglobin concentration occurs in pregnancy with physiologic anemia. c. Fetus establishes the iron stores. d. Decreased production of erythrocytes occur.

ANS: B When blood volume expansion is more pronounced and occurs earlier than the increase in red blood cells, the woman has physiologic anemia, which is the result of the dilution of hemoglobin concentration rather than inadequate hemoglobin. An inadequate intake of iron may lead to true anemia. The production of erythrocytes increases during pregnancy.

A client states that she plans to breastfeed her newborn infant. What guidance would be useful for this new mother? a. The mother's intake of vitamin C, zinc, and protein can now be lower than during pregnancy. b. Caffeine consumed by the mother accumulates in the infant, who may be unusually active and wakeful. c. Critical iron and folic acid levels must be maintained. d. Lactating women can go back to their prepregnant caloric intake.

ANS: B A lactating woman needs to avoid consuming too much caffeine. Vitamin C, zinc, and protein levels need to be moderately higher during lactation than during pregnancy. The recommendations for iron and folic acid are lower during lactation. Lactating women should consume approximately 500 kcal more than their prepregnancy intake, at least 1800 kcal daily overall.

The client being cared for has severe preeclampsia and is receiving a magnesium sulfate infusion. Which new finding would give the nurse cause for concern? a. Sleepy, sedated affect b. Respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute c. Deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) of 2+ d. Absent ankle clonus

ANS: B A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates the client is experiencing respiratory depression from magnesium toxicity. Because magnesium sulfate is a CNS depressant, the client will most likely become sedated when the infusion is initiated. DTRs of 2+ and absent ankle clonus are normal findings.

Which action is the highest priority for the nurse when educating a pregnant adolescent? a. Emphasize the need to eliminate common teenage snack foods because they are high in fat and sodium. b. Determine the weight gain needed to meet adolescent growth and add 35 pounds. c. Suggest that she not eat at fast-food restaurants to avoid foods of poor nutritional value. d. Realize that most adolescents are unwilling to make dietary changes during pregnancy

ANS: B Adolescents should gain in the upper range of the recommended weight gain. They also need to gain weight that would be expected for their own normal growth. Changes in the diet should be kept at a minimum. Snack foods can be included in moderation, and other foods can be added to make up for lost nutrients. Eliminating fast foods would make the adolescent appear different to her peers. The client should be taught to choose foods that add needed nutrients. Adolescents are willing to make changes; however, they still have the need to be similar to their peers.

A woman who is 16 weeks pregnant asks the nurse, "Is it possible to tell by ultrasound if the baby is a boy or girl yet?" What is the best answer? a. "A baby's sex is determined as soon as conception occurs." b. "The baby has developed enough to enable us to determine the sex by examining the genitals through an ultrasound scan." c. "Boys and girls look alike until approximately 20 weeks after conception, and then they begin to look different." d. "It might be possible to determine your baby's sex, but the external organs look very similar right now."

ANS: B Although gender is determined at conception, the external genitalia of males and females look similar through the ninth week. By the twelfth week, the external genitalia are distinguishable as male or female.

Which statement about the development of cultural competence is inaccurate? a. Local health care workers and community advocates can help extend health care to underserved populations. b. Nursing care is delivered in the context of the client's culture but not in the context of the nurse's culture. c. Nurses must develop an awareness of and a sensitivity to various cultures. d. Culture's economic, religious, and political structures influence practices that affect childbearing.

ANS: B Although the cultural context of the nurse affects the delivery of nursing care and is very important, the work of local health care workers and community advocates, developing sensitivity to various cultures, and the impact of economic, religious, and political structures are all parts of cultural competence.

Many clients are concerned about the increased levels of mercury in fish and may be reluctant to include this source of nutrients in their diet. What is the best advice for the nurse to provide? a. "Canned white tuna is a preferred choice for inclusion in your diet." b. "Shark, swordfish, and mackerel are types of fish that have high mercury levels" c. "Fish caught in local waterways is the safest to consume." d. "Avoid salmon and shrimp since they contain high levels of mercury.

ANS: B As a precaution, the pregnant client should avoid eating shark, swordfish, and mackerel, as well as the less common tilefish. High levels of mercury can harm the developing nervous system of the fetus. Assisting the client in understanding the differences between numerous sources of mercury is essential for the nurse. A pregnant client may eat as much as 12 ounces a week of canned light tuna; however, canned white, albacore, or tuna steaks contain higher levels of mercury and should be limited to no more than 6 ounces per week.

Which statement regarding the structure and function of the placenta is correct? a. Produces nutrients for fetal nutrition b. Secretes both estrogen and progesterone c. Forms a protective, impenetrable barrier to microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses d. Excretes prolactin and insulin

ANS: B As one of its early functions, the placenta acts as an endocrine gland, producing four hormones necessary to maintain the pregnancy and to support the embryo or fetus: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen (hPL), estrogen, and progesterone. The placenta does not produce nutrients. It functions as a means of metabolic exchange between the maternal and fetal blood supplies. Many bacteria and viruses can cross the placental membrane.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends which therapy for the treatment of the HPV? a Miconazole ointment b Topical podofilox 0.5% solution or gel c Two doses of penicillin administered intramuscularly (IM) d Metronidazole by mouth

ANS: B Available treatments are imiquimod, podophyllin, and podofilox. Miconazole ointment is used to treat athlete's foot. Penicillin IM is used to treat syphilis. Metronidazole is used to treat bacterial vaginosis.

A woman who has a seizure disorder and takes barbiturates and phenytoin sodium daily asks the nurse about the pill as a contraceptive choice. What is the nurse's best response? a. "Oral contraceptives are a highly effective method, but they have some side effects." b. "Your current medications will reduce the effectiveness of the pill." c. "Oral contraceptives will reduce the effectiveness of your seizure medication." d. "The pill is a good choice for a woman of your age and with your personal history."

ANS: B Because the liver metabolizes oral contraceptives, their effectiveness is reduced when they are simultaneously taken with anticonvulsants. Stating that the pill is an effective birth control method with side effects is a true statement, but this response is not the most appropriate. The anticonvulsant reduces the effectiveness of the pill, not the other way around. Stating that the pill is a good choice for a woman of her age and personal history does not teach the client that the effectiveness of the pill may be reduced because of her anticonvulsant therapy

Which information should the nurse take into consideration when planning care for a postpartum client with cardiac disease? a. The plan of care for a postpartum client is the same as the plan for any pregnant woman. b. The plan of care includes rest, stool softeners, and monitoring of the effect of activity. c. The plan of care includes frequent ambulating, alternating with active range-of-motion exercises. d. The plan of care includes limiting visits with the infant to once per day.

ANS: B Bed rest may be ordered, with or without bathroom privileges. Bowel movements without stress or strain for the woman are promoted with stool softeners, diet, and fluids. Care of the woman with cardiac disease in the postpartum period is tailored to the woman's functional capacity. The woman will be on bed rest to conserve energy and to reduce the strain on the heart. Although the woman may need help caring for the infant, breastfeeding and infant visits are not contraindicated

Which renal system adaptation is an anticipated anatomic change of pregnancy? a. Increased urinary output makes pregnant women less susceptible to urinary infections. b. Increased bladder sensitivity and then compression of the bladder by the enlarging uterus result in the urge to urinate even when the bladder is almost empty. c. Renal (kidney) function is more efficient when the woman assumes a supine position. d. Using diuretic agents during pregnancy can help keep kidney function regular

ANS: B Bladder sensitivity and then compression of the bladder by the uterus result in the urge to urinate more often, even when the bladder is almost empty. A number of anatomic changes in pregnancy make a woman more susceptible to urinary tract infections. Renal function is more efficient when the woman lies in the lateral recumbent position and is less efficient when she is supine. Diuretic use during pregnancy can overstress the system and cause problems.

The indirect Coombs' test is a screening tool for Rh incompatibility. An amniocentesis may be a necessary next step it the titer is greater than what? a. 1:2 b. 1:4 c. 1:8 d. 1:12

ANS: C If the maternal titer for Rh antibodies is greater 1:8, then an amniocentesis is indicated to determine the level of bilirubin in the amniotic fluid. This testing will determine the severity of fetal hemolytic anemia

Which action should the nurse first take when meeting with a new client to discuss contraception? a. Obtain data about the frequency of coitus. b. Determine the woman's level of knowledge concerning contraception.. c. Assess the woman's willingness to touch her genitals and cervical mucus. d. Evaluate the woman's contraceptive life plan.

ANS: B Determining the woman's level of knowledge concerning contraception and her commitment to any particular method is the primary step of this nursing assessment and necessary before completing the process and moving on to a nursing diagnosis. Once the client's level of knowledge is determined, the nurse can interact with the woman to compare options, reliability, cost, comfort level, protection from STIs, and her partner's willingness to participate. Although important, obtaining data about the frequency of coitus is not the first action that the nurse should undertake when completing an assessment. Data should include not only the frequency of coitus but also the number of sexual partners, level of contraceptive involvement, and the partner's objections. Assessing the woman's willingness to touch herself is a key factor for the nurse to discuss should the client express an interest in using one of the fertility awareness methods of contraception. The nurse must be aware of the client's plan regarding whether she is attempting to prevent conception, delay conception, or conceive.

Which statement best describes maternity nursing care that is based on knowledge gained through research and clinical trials? a. Maternity nursing care is derived from the Nursing Intervention Classification. b. Maternity nursing care is known as evidence-based practice. c. Maternity nursing care is at odds with the Cochrane School of traditional nursing. d. Maternity nursing care is an outgrowth of telemedicine.

ANS: B Evidence-based practice is based on knowledge gained from research and clinical trials. The Nursing Intervention Classification is a method of standardizing language and categorizing care. Dr. Cochrane systematically reviewed research trials and is part of the evidence-based practice movement. Telemedicine uses communication technologies to support health care

A client is seen at the clinic at 14 weeks of gestation for a follow-up appointment. At which level does the nurse expect to palpate the fundus? a. Nonpalpable above the symphysis at 14 weeks of gestation b. Slightly above the symphysis pubis c. At the level of the umbilicus d. Slightly above the umbilicus

ANS: B In normal pregnancies, the uterus grows at a predictable rate. It may be palpated above the symphysis pubis sometime between the 12th and 14th weeks of pregnancy. As the uterus grows, it may be palpated above the symphysis pubis sometime between the 12th and 14th weeks of pregnancy. At 14 weeks, the uterus is not yet at the level of the umbilicus. The fundus is not palpable above the umbilicus until 22 to 24 weeks of gestation.

To prevent gastrointestinal (GI) upset, when should a pregnant client be instructed to take the recommended iron supplements? a. On a full stomach b. At bedtime c. After eating a meal d. With milk

ANS: B Iron supplements taken at bedtime may reduce GI upset and should be taken at bedtime if abdominal discomfort occurs when iron supplements are taken between meals. Iron supplements are best absorbed if they are taken when the stomach is empty. Bran, tea, coffee, milk, and eggs may reduce absorption.

The nurse knows that teaching about the natural family planning method of contraception was effective when the couple responds that an ovum is considered fertile for which period of time? a. 6 to 8 hours b. 24 hours c. 2 to 3 days d. 1 week

ANS: B Most ova remain fertile for approximately 24 hours after ovulation, much longer than 6 to 8 hours. However, ova do not remain fertile for 2 to 3 days or are viable for 1 week. If unfertilized by a sperm after 24 hours, the ovum degenerates and is reabsorbed.

A pregnant woman is being discharged from the hospital after the placement of a cervical cerclage because of a history of recurrent pregnancy loss, secondary to an incompetent cervix. Which information regarding postprocedural care should the nurse emphasize in the discharge teaching? a. Any vaginal discharge should be immediately reported to her health care provider. b. The presence of any contractions, rupture of membranes (ROM), or severe perineal pressure should be reported. c. The client will need to arrange for care at home, because her activity level will be restricted. d. The client will be scheduled for a cesarean birth.

ANS: B Nursing care should stress the importance of monitoring for the signs and symptoms of preterm labor. Vaginal bleeding needs to be reported to her primary health care provider. Bed rest is an element of care. However, the woman may stand for periods of up to 90 minutes, which allows her the freedom to see her physician. Home uterine activity monitoring may be used to limit the woman's need for visits and to monitor her status safely at home. The cerclage can be removed at 37 weeks of gestation (to prepare for a vaginal birth), or a cesarean birth can be planned.

A new mother with a thyroid disorder has come for a lactation follow-up appointment. Which thyroid disorder is a contraindication for breastfeeding? a. Hyperthyroidism b. Phenylketonuria (PKU) c. Hypothyroidism d. Thyroid storm

ANS: B PKU is a cause of mental retardation in infants; mothers with PKU pass on phenylalanine and therefore should elect not to breastfeed. A woman with either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism would have no reason not to breastfeed. A thyroid storm is a complication of hyperthyroidism and is not a contraindication to breastfeeding.

Preconception counseling is critical in the safe management of diabetic pregnancies. Which complication is commonly associated with poor glycemic control before and during early pregnancy? a. Frequent episodes of maternal hypoglycemia b. Miscarriage c. Hydramnios d. Hyperemesis gravidarum

ANS: B Preconception counseling is particularly important since strict metabolic control before conception and in the early weeks of gestation is instrumental in decreasing the risk of miscarriages. Frequent episodes of maternal hypoglycemia may occur during the first trimester (not before conception) as a result of hormonal changes and the effects on insulin production and use. Hydramnios occurs approximately 10 times more often in diabetic pregnancies than in nondiabetic pregnancies. Typically, it is observed in the third trimester of pregnancy. Hyperemesis gravidarum may exacerbate hypoglycemic events because the decreased food intake by the mother and glucose transfer to the fetus contribute to hypoglycemia.

What represents a typical progression through the phases of a woman's establishing a relationship with the fetus? a. Accepts the fetus as distinct from herself—accepts the biologic fact of pregnancy—has feelings of caring and responsibility. b. Fantasizes about the child's gender and personality—views the child as part of herself—becomes introspective. c. Views the child as part of herself—has feelings of well-being—accepts the biologic fact of the pregnancy. d. "I am pregnant"—"I am going to have a baby"—"I am going to be a mother."

ANS: D

The client makes an appointment for preconception counseling. The woman has a known heart condition and is unsure if she should become pregnant. Which is the only cardiac condition that would cause concern? a. Marfan syndrome b. Eisenmenger syndrome c. Heart transplant d. Ventricular septal defect (VSD)

ANS: B Pregnancy is contraindicated in clients with Eisenmenger syndrome. Women who have had heart transplants are successfully having babies. However, conception should be postponed for at least 1 year after transplantation. Management of the client with Marfan syndrome during pregnancy includes bed rest, beta-blockers, and surgery before conception. VSD is usually corrected early in life and is therefore not a contraindication to pregnancy.

During the physical examination of a client beginning prenatal care, which initial action is most important for the nurse to perform? a. Only women who show physical signs or meet the sociologic profile should be assessed for physical abuse. b. The client should empty her bladder before the pelvic examination. c. The distribution, amount, and quality of body hair are of no particular importance. d. The size of the uterus is discounted in the initial examination because it will be increasing in size during the second trimester.

ANS: B The nurse should instruct the client to empty her bladder. An empty bladder facilitates the examination and also provides an opportunity to obtain a urine sample for a number of tests. All women should be assessed for a history of physical abuse, particularly because the likelihood of abuse increases during pregnancy. Noting body hair is important because body hair reflects nutritional status, endocrine function, and hygiene. Particular attention is paid to the size of the uterus because it is an indication of the duration of gestation.

Which key point is important for the nurse to understand regarding the perinatal continuum of care? a. Begins with conception and ends with the birth b. Begins with family planning and continues until the infant is 1 year old c. Begins with prenatal care and continues until the newborn is 24 weeks old d. Refers to home care only

ANS: B The perinatal continuum of care begins with family planning and continues until the infant is 1 year old. It takes place both at home and in health care facilities. The perinatal continuum does not end with the birth. The perinatal continuum begins before conception and continues after the birth. Home care is one delivery component; health care facilities are another

Importantly, the nurse must be aware of which information related to the use of intrauterine devices (IUDs)? a. Return to fertility can take several weeks after the device is removed. b. Copper IUDs can serve as an emergency contraception under certain situations. c. IUDs offer the same protection against STIs as the diaphragm. d. Consent forms are not needed for IUD insertion.

ANS: B The woman has up to 5 days to insert the IUD after unprotected sex. The return to fertility is immediate after the removal of the IUD. IUDs offer no protection against STIs. A consent form is required for insertion, as is a negative pregnancy test.

During a prenatal intake interview, the client informs the nurse that she would prefer a midwife to provide both her care during pregnancy and deliver her infant. Which information is most appropriate for the nurse to share with this client about resulting care? a. Midwifery care is a good option for clients who are uninsured. b. She will receive fewer interventions during the birth process. c. She should be aware that midwives are not certified. d. Her delivery can take place only at home or in a birth center.

ANS: B This client will be able to participate actively in all decisions related to the birth process and is likely to receive fewer interventions during the birth process. Midwifery services are available to all low-risk pregnant women, regardless of the type of insurance they have. Midwifery care in all developed countries is strictly regulated by a governing body to ensure that core competencies are met. In the United States, this body is the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). Midwives can provide care and delivery at home, in freestanding birth centers, and in community and teaching hospitals.

A 26-year-old primigravida has come to the clinic for her regular prenatal visit at 12 weeks. She appears thin and somewhat nervous. She reports that she eats a well-balanced diet, although her weight is 5 pounds less than it was at her last visit. The results of laboratory studies confirm that she has a hyperthyroid condition. Based on the available data, the nurse formulates a plan of care. Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for the client currently? a. Disrupted fluid balance b. Inadequate nutrition c. Excessive nutrition d. Disrupted sleep

ANS: B This client's clinical cues include weight loss, which supports a nursing diagnosis of "Inadequate nutrition." No clinical signs or symptoms support a nursing diagnosis of disrupted fluid balance. This client reports weight loss not weight gain. Although the client reports nervousness, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis, based on the client's other clinical symptoms, is "Inadequate nutrition."

It is extremely rare for a woman to die in childbirth; however, it can happen. In the United States, the annual occurrence of maternal death is 12 per 100,000 cases of live birth. What are the leading causes of maternal death? a. Embolism and preeclampsia b. Falls and motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) c. Hemorrhage and infection d. Underlying chronic conditions

ANS: B Trauma is the leading cause of obstetric death in women of childbearing age. Most maternal injuries are the result of MVAs and falls. Although preeclampsia and embolism are significant contributors to perinatal morbidity, these are not the leading cause of maternal mortality. Maternal death caused by trauma may occur as the result of hemorrhagic shock or abruptio placentae. In these cases, the hemorrhage is the result of trauma, not childbirth. The wish to become a parent is not eliminated by a chronic health problem, and many women each year risk their lives to have a baby. Because of advanced pediatric care, many women are surviving childhood illnesses and reaching adulthood with chronic health problems such as cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and pulmonary disorders

Which statement regarding multifetal pregnancy is incorrect? a. The expectant mother often develops anemia because the fetuses have a greater demand for iron. b. Twin pregnancies come to term with the same frequency as single pregnancies. c. The mother should be counseled to increase her nutritional intake and gain more weight. d. Backache and varicose veins often are more pronounced with a multifetal pregnancy

ANS: B Twin pregnancies often end in prematurity. Serious efforts should be made to bring the pregnancy to term. A woman with a multifetal pregnancy often develops anemia, suffers more or worse backache, and needs to gain more weight. Counseling is needed to help her adjust to these conditions

In terms of the incidence and classification of diabetes, which information should the nurse keep in mind when evaluating clients during their ongoing prenatal appointments? a. Type 1 diabetes is most common. b. Type 2 diabetes often goes undiagnosed. c. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) means that the woman will receive insulin treatment until 6 weeks after birth. d. Type 1 diabetes may become type 2 during pregnancy.

ANS: B Type 2 diabetes often goes undiagnosed because hyperglycemia gradually develops and is often not severe. Type 2, sometimes called adult-onset diabetes, is the most common type of diabetes. GDM refers to any degree of glucose intolerance first recognized during pregnancy; insulin may or may not be needed. People do not go back and forth between type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Which statements indicate that the nurse is practicing appropriate family-centered care techniques? (Select all that apply.) a. The nurse commands the pregnant woman to do as she is told. b. The nurse allows time for the partner to ask questions. c. The nurse allows the mother and father to make choices when possible. d. The nurse informs the family about what is going to happen. e. The nurse tells the client's sister, who is a nurse, that she cannot be in the room during the delivery.

ANS: B, C Including the partner in the care process and allowing the couple to make choices are important elements of family-centered care. The nurse should never tell the client what to do. Family-centered care involves collaboration between the health care team and the client. Unless an institutional policy limits the number of attendants at a delivery, the client should be allowed to have whomever she wants present (except when the situation is an emergency and guests are asked to leave).

Greater than one third of women in the United States are now obese (body mass index [BMI] of 30 or greater). Less than one quarter of women in Canada exhibit the same BMI. Obesity in the pregnant woman increases both maternal medical risk factors and negative outcomes for the infant. The nurse is about to perform an assessment on a client who is 28 weeks pregnant and has a BMI of 35. What are the most frequently reported complications for which the nurse must be alert while assessing this client? (Select all that apply.) a. Potential miscarriage b. Diabetes c. Fetal death in utero d. Decreased fertility e. Hypertension

ANS: B, E The two most frequently reported maternal medical risk factors associated with obesity are hypertension associated with pregnancy and diabetes. Decreased fertility, miscarriage, fetal death, and congenital anomalies are also associated with obesity. These clients often experience longer hospital stays and increased use of health services.

A client in the third trimester has just undergone an amniocentesis to determine fetal lung maturity. Which statement regarding this testing is important for the nurse in formulating a care plan? a. Because of new imaging techniques, an amniocentesis should have been performed in the first trimester. b. Despite the use of ultrasonography, complications still occur in the mother or infant in 5% to 10% of cases. c. Administration of Rho(D) immunoglobulin may be necessary. d. The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid is always a cause for concern.

ANS: C

A pregnant woman at 25 weeks of gestation tells the nurse that she dropped a pan last week and her baby jumped at the noise. Which response by the nurse is most accurate? a. "That must have been a coincidence; babies can't respond like that." b. "The fetus is demonstrating the aural reflex." c. "Babies respond to sound starting at approximately 24 weeks of gestation." d. "Let me know if it happens again; we need to report that to your midwife."

ANS: C

A woman arrives at the emergency department with reports of bleeding and cramping. The initial nursing history is significant for a last menstrual period 6 weeks ago. On sterile speculum examination, the primary care provider finds that the cervix is closed. The anticipated plan of care for this woman would be based on a probable diagnosis of which type of spontaneous abortion? a. Incomplete b. Inevitable c. Threatened d. Septic

ANS: C

A woman who is 30 weeks of gestation arrives at the hospital with bleeding. Which differential diagnosis would not be applicable for this client? a. Placenta previa b. Abruptio placentae c. Spontaneous abortion d. Cord insertion

ANS: C

During the initial visit with a client who is beginning prenatal care, which action should be the highest priority for the nurse? a. The first interview is a relaxed, get-acquainted affair during which the nurse gathers some general impressions of his or her new client. b. If the nurse observed handicapping conditions, he or she should be sensitive and not inquire about them because the client will do that in her own time. c. The nurse should be alert to the appearance of potential parenting problems, such as depression or lack of family support. d. Because of legal complications, the nurse should not ask about illegal drug use; that is left to the physician.

ANS: C

In the past, factors to determine whether a woman was likely to develop a high-risk pregnancy were primarily evaluated from a medical point of view. A broader, more comprehensive approach to high-risk pregnancy has been adopted today. Four categories have now been established, based on the threats to the health of the woman and the outcome of pregnancy. Which category should not be included in this group? a. Biophysical b. Psychosocial c. Geographic d. Environmental

ANS: C

A pregnant woman's diet consists almost entirely of whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Which dietary requirement is the nurse most concerned about? a. Calcium b. Protein c. Vitamin B12 d. Folic acid

ANS: C A pregnant woman's diet is consistent with that followed by a strict vegetarian (vegan). Vegans consume only plant products. Because vitamin B12 is found in foods of animal origin, this diet is deficient in vitamin B12. Depending on the woman's food choices, a pregnant woman's diet may be adequate in calcium. Protein needs can be sufficiently met by a vegetarian diet. The nurse should be more concerned with the woman's intake of vitamin B12 attributable to her dietary restrictions. Folic acid needs can be met by enriched bread products.

Since the gene for cystic fibrosis was identified in 1989, data can be collected for the purposes of genetic counseling for couples regarding carrier status. According to the most recent statistics, how often does cystic fibrosis occur in Caucasian live births? a. 1 in 100 b. 1 in 1000 c. 1 in 2000 d. 1 in 3200

ANS: D Cystic fibrosis occurs in approximately 1 in 3200 Caucasian live births. 1 in 100, 1 in 1000, and 1 in 2000 occurrences of cystic fibrosis in live births are all too frequent rates

Which statement regarding the development of the respiratory system is a high priority for the nurse to understand? a. The respiratory system does not begin developing until after the embryonic stage. b. The infant's lungs are considered mature when the L/S ratio is 1:1, at approximately 32 weeks of gestation. c. Maternal hypertension can reduce maternal-placental blood flow, accelerating lung maturity. d. Fetal respiratory movements are not visible on ultrasound scans until at least 16 weeks of gestation.

ANS: C A reduction in placental blood flow stresses the fetus, increases blood levels of corticosteroids, and thus accelerates lung maturity. The development of the respiratory system begins during the embryonic phase and continues into childhood. The infant's lungs are considered mature when the L/S ratio is 2:1, at approximately 35 weeks of gestation. Lung movements have been visualized on ultrasound scans at 11 weeks of gestation.

Pregnant adolescents are at greater risk for decreased body mass index (BMI) and "fad" dieting with which condition? a. Obesity b. Gestational diabetes c. Low-birth-weight babies d. High-birth-weight babies

ANS: C Adolescents tend to have lower BMIs. In addition, the fetus and the still-growing mother appear to compete for nutrients. These factors, along with inadequate weight gain, lend themselves to a higher incidence of low-birth-weight babies. Obesity is associated with a higher-than-normal BMI. Unless the teenager has type 1 diabetes, an adolescent with a low BMI is less likely to develop gestational diabetes. High-birth-weight or large-for-gestational age (LGA) babies are most often associated with gestational diabetes.

At 35 weeks of pregnancy, a woman experiences preterm labor. Although tocolytic medications are administered and she is placed on bed rest, she continues to experience regular uterine contractions and her cervix is beginning to dilate and efface. What is an important test for fetal well-being at this time? a. Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) b. Ultrasound for fetal size c. Amniocentesis for fetal lung maturity d. Non stress test (NST)

ANS: C Amniocentesis is performed to assess fetal lung maturity in the event of a preterm birth. The fluid is examined to determine the lecithin to sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio. Indications for PUBS include prenatal diagnosis or inherited blood disorders, karyotyping of malformed fetuses, detection of fetal infection, determination of the acid-base status of the fetus with IUGR, and assessment and treatment of isoimmunization and thrombocytopenia in the fetus. Determination of fetal size by ultrasound is typically performed during the second trimester and is not indicated in this scenario. An NST measures the fetal response to fetal movement in a noncontracting mother.

While working with the pregnant client in her first trimester, what information does the nurse provide regarding when chorionic villus sampling (CVS) can be performed (in weeks of gestation)? a. 4 b. 8 c. 10 d. 14

ANS: C CVS can be performed in the first or second trimester, ideally between 10 and 13 weeks of gestation. During this procedure, a small piece of tissue is removed from the fetal portion of the placenta. If performed after 9 completed weeks of gestation, then the risk of limb reduction is no greater than in the general population.

In the acronym BRAIDED, which letter is used to identify the key components of informed consent that the nurse must document? a. B stands for birth control. b. R stands for reproduction. c. A stands for alternatives. d. I stands for ineffective.

ANS: C In the acronym BRAIDED, A stands for alternatives and information about other viable methods. B stands for benefits and information about the advantages of a particular birth control method and its success rates. R stands for risks and information about the disadvantages of a particular method and its failure rates. I stands for inquiries and the opportunity to ask questions.

Which minerals and vitamins are usually recommended as a supplement in a pregnant client's diet? a. Fat-soluble vitamins A and D b. Water-soluble vitamins C and B6 c. Iron and folate d. Calcium and zinc

ANS: C Iron should generally be supplemented, and folic acid supplements are often needed because folate is so important in pregnancy. Fat-soluble vitamins should be supplemented as a medical prescription, as vitamin D might be for lactose-intolerant women. Water-soluble vitamin C is sometimes naturally consumed in excess; vitamin B6 is prescribed only if the woman has a very poor diet; and zinc is sometimes supplemented. Most women get enough calcium.

The nurse is providing education to a client regarding the normal changes of the breasts during pregnancy. Which statement regarding these changes is correct? a. The visibility of blood vessels that form an intertwining blue network indicates a possible infection of the tubercles. b. The mammary glands do not develop until 2 weeks before labor. c. Lactation is inhibited until the progesterone level declines after birth. d. Colostrum is the yellowish oily substance used to lubricate the nipples for breastfeeding.

ANS: C Lactation is inhibited until after birth due to progesterone levels. The visible blue network of blood vessels is a normal outgrowth of a richer blood supply. The mammary glands are functionally complete by mid-pregnancy. Colostrum is a creamy white-to-yellow pre-milk fluid that can be expressed from the nipples before birth.

The nurse is preparing to administer methotrexate to the client. This hazardous drug is most often used for which obstetric complication? a. Complete hydatidiform mole b. Missed abortion c. Unruptured ectopic pregnancy d. Abruptio placentae

ANS: C Methotrexate is an effective nonsurgical treatment option for a hemodynamically stable woman whose ectopic pregnancy is unruptured and measures less than 4 cm in diameter. Methotrexate is not indicated or recommended as a treatment option for a complete hydatidiform mole, for a missed abortion, or for abruptio placentae.

A woman with asthma is experiencing a postpartum hemorrhage. Which drug should be avoided when treating postpartum bleeding to avoid exacerbating asthma? a. Oxytocin (Pitocin) b. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) c. 15-methyl PGF2 d. Fentanyl

ANS: C Prostaglandin derivatives like 15-methyl PGF2 should not be used to treat women with asthma, because they may exacerbate symptoms. Oxytocin is the drug of choice to treat this woman's bleeding; it will not exacerbate her asthma. NSAIDs are not used to treat bleeding. Fentanyl is used to treat pain, not bleeding

The measurement of lecithin in relation to sphingomyelin (lecithin/sphingomyelin [L/S] ratio) is used to determine fetal lung maturity. Which ratio reflects fetal maturity of the lungs? a. 1.4:1 b. 1.8:1 c. 2:1 d. 1:1

ANS: C The L/S ratio indicates a 2:1 ratio of lecithin to sphingomyelin, which is an indicator of fetal lung maturity and occurs at approximately the middle of the third trimester. L/S ratios of 1.4:1, 1.8:1, and 1:1 each indicate immaturity of the fetal lungs.

A woman's cousin gave birth to an infant with a congenital heart anomaly. The woman asks the nurse when such anomalies occur during development. Which response by the nurse is most accurate? a. "We don't really know when such defects occur." b. "It depends on what caused the defect." c. "Defects occur between the third and fifth weeks of development." d. "They usually occur in the first 2 weeks of development."

ANS: C The cardiovascular system is the first organ system to function in the developing human. Blood vessel and blood formation begins in the third week, and the heart is developmentally complete in the fifth week. "We don't really know when such defects occur" is an inaccurate statement. Regardless of the cause, the heart is vulnerable during its period of development—in the third to fifth weeks; therefore, the statement, "They usually occur in the first 2 weeks of development" is inaccurate.

While obtaining a diet history, the nurse might be told that the expectant mother has cravings for ice chips, cornstarch, and baking soda. Which nutritional problem does this behavior indicate? a. Preeclampsia b. Pyrosis c. Pica d. Purging

ANS: C The consumption of foods low in nutritional value or of nonfood substances (e.g., dirt, laundry starch) is called pica. Preeclampsia is a vasospastic disease process encountered after 20 weeks of gestation. Characteristics of preeclampsia include increasing hypertension, proteinuria, and hemoconcentration. Pyrosis is a burning sensation in the epigastric region, otherwise known as heartburn. Purging refers to self-induced vomiting after consuming large quantities of food

Which traditional family structure is decreasing in numbers and attributable to societal changes? a. Extended family b. Binuclear family c. Nuclear family d. Blended family

ANS: C The nuclear family has long represented the traditional American family in which husband, wife, and children live as an independent unit. As a result of rapid changes in society, this number is steadily decreasing as other family configurations are socially recognized. Extended families involve additional blood relatives other than the parents. A binuclear family involves two households. A blended family is reconstructed after divorce and involves the merger of two families.

Which finding on a prenatal visit at 10 weeks of gestation might suggest a hydatidiform mole? a. Complaint of frequent mild nausea b. Blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg c. Fundal height measurement of 18 cm d. History of bright red spotting for 1 day, weeks ago

ANS: C The uterus in a hydatidiform molar pregnancy is often larger than would be expected on the basis of the duration of the pregnancy. Nausea increases in a molar pregnancy because of the increased production of hCG. A woman with a molar pregnancy may have early-onset pregnancy-induced hypertension. In the client's history, bleeding is normally described as brownish.

A 27-year-old pregnant woman had a preconceptual body mass index (BMI) of 19. What is this client's total recommended weight gain during pregnancy? a. 20 kg (44 lb) b. 16 kg (35 lb) c. 12.5 kg (27.5 lb) d. 10 kg (22 lb)

ANS: C This woman has a normal BMI and should gain 11.5 to 16 kg during her pregnancy. A weight gain of 20 kg (44 lb) is unhealthy for most women; a weight gain of 16 kg (35 lb) is at the high end of the range of weight this woman should gain in her pregnancy; and a weight gain of 10 kg (22 lb) is appropriate for an obese woman. This woman has a normal BMI, which indicates that her weight is average.

When weighing the advantages and disadvantages of planning home care for perinatal services, what information should the nurse use in making the decision? a. Home care for perinatal services is more dangerous for vulnerable neonates at risk of acquiring an infection from the nurse. b. Home care for perinatal services is more cost-effective for the nurse than office visits. c. Home care for perinatal services allows the nurse to interact with and include family members in teaching. d. Home care for perinatal services is made possible by the ready supply of nurses with expertise in maternity care

ANS: C Treating the whole family is an advantage of home care. Forcing neonates out in inclement weather and in public is more risky. Office visits are more cost-effective for the providers such as nurses because less travel time is involved. Unfortunately, home care options are limited by the lack of nurses with expertise in maternity care.

Which preexisting factor is known to increase the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)? a. Underweight before pregnancy b. Maternal age younger than 25 years c. Previous birth of large infant d. Previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus

ANS: C A previous birth of a large infant suggests GDM. Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 or greater) creates a higher risk for gestational diabetes. A woman younger than 25 years is not generally at risk for GDM. The person with type 2 diabetes mellitus already has diabetes and thus will continue to have it after pregnancy. Insulin may be required during pregnancy because oral hypoglycemia drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy.

Which client would be an ideal candidate for injectable progestins such as medroxyprogesterone acetate as a contraceptive choice? a. The ideal candidate wants menstrual regularity and predictability. b. The client has a history of thrombotic problems or breast cancer. c. The ideal candidate has difficulty remembering to take oral contraceptives daily. d. The client is homeless or mobile and rarely receives health care.

ANS: C Advantages of medroxyprogesterone acetate includes its contraceptive effectiveness, compared with the effectiveness of combined oral contraceptives, and the requirement of only four injections a year. The disadvantages of injectable progestins are prolonged amenorrhea and uterine bleeding. The use of injectable progestin carries an increased risk of venous thrombosis and thromboembolism. To be effective, injections must be administered every 11 to 13 weeks. Access to health care is necessary to prevent pregnancy or potential complications.

Some pregnant clients may report changes in their voice and impaired hearing. What should the nurse explain to the client concerning these findings? a. Voice changes are caused by decreased estrogen levels. b. Displacement of the diaphragm results in thoracic breathing. c. These changes are the results of congestion and swelling of the upper respiratory tract. d. Increased blood volume causes changes in the voice.

ANS: C Although the diaphragm is displaced, and the volume of blood is increased, neither causes changes in the voice nor impairs hearing. The key is that estrogen levels increase, not decrease, which causes the upper respiratory tract to become more vascular, which produces swelling and congestion in the nose and ears and therefore voice changes and impaired hearing.

A woman with worsening preeclampsia is admitted to the hospital's labor and birth unit. The physician explains the plan of care for severe preeclampsia, including the induction of labor, to the woman and her partner. Which statement by the partner leads the nurse to believe that the couple needs further information? a. "I will help her use the breathing techniques that we learned in our childbirth classes." b. "I will give her ice chips to eat during labor." c. "Since we will be here for a while, I'll ask my mother, to bring our toddler to visit." d. "I will stay with her during her labor, just as we planned."

ANS: C Arranging a visit with their toddler indicates that the partner does not understand the importance of the quiet, subdued environment that is needed to prevent this condition from worsening. Implementing breathing techniques is indicative of adequate knowledge related to pain management during labor. Administering ice chips indicates an understanding of nutritional needs during labor. Staying with his partner during labor demonstrates the husband's support and is appropriate

A woman arrives for evaluation of signs and symptoms that include a missed period, adnexal fullness, tenderness, and dark red vaginal bleeding. On examination, the nurse notices an ecchymotic blueness around the woman's umbilicus. What does this finding indicate? a. Normal integumentary changes associated with pregnancy b. Turner sign associated with appendicitis c. Cullen sign associated with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy d. Chadwick sign associated with early pregnancy

ANS: C Cullen sign, the blue ecchymosis observed in the umbilical area, indicates hematoperitoneum associated with an undiagnosed ruptured intraabdominal ectopic pregnancy. Linea nigra on the abdomen is the normal integumentary change associated with pregnancy and exhibits a brown pigmented, vertical line on the lower abdomen. Turner sign is ecchymosis in the flank area, often associated with pancreatitis. A Chadwick sign is a blue-purple cervix that may be seen during or around the eighth week of pregnancy.

During a prenatal visit, the nurse is explaining dietary management to a woman diagnosed with pre-gestational diabetes. Which statement by the client reassures the nurse that teaching has been effective? a. "I will need to eat 600 more calories per day because I am pregnant." b. "I can continue with the same diet as before pregnancy as long as it is well balanced." c. "Diet and insulin needs change during pregnancy." d. "I will plan my diet based on the results of urine glucose testing."

ANS: C Diet and insulin needs change during the pregnancy in direct correlation to hormonal changes and energy needs. In the third trimester, insulin needs may double or even quadruple. The diet is individualized to allow for increased fetal and metabolic requirements, with consideration of such factors as prepregnancy weight and dietary habits, overall health, ethnic background, lifestyle, stage of pregnancy, knowledge of nutrition, and insulin therapy. Energy needs are usually calculated on the basis of 30 to 35 calories per kilogram of ideal body weight. Dietary management during a diabetic pregnancy must be based on blood, not urine, glucose changes.

Which important component of nutritional counseling should the nurse include in health teaching for a pregnant woman who is experiencing cholecystitis? a. Assess the woman's dietary history for adequate calories and proteins. b. Teach the woman that the bulk of calories should come from proteins. c. Instruct the woman to eat a low-fat diet and to avoid fried foods. d. Instruct the woman to eat a low-cholesterol, low-salt diet

ANS: C Eating a low-fat diet and avoiding fried foods is appropriate nutritional counseling for this client. Caloric and protein intake do not predispose a woman to the development of cholecystitis. The woman should be instructed to limit protein intake and choose foods that are high in carbohydrates. A low-cholesterol diet may be the result of limiting fats. However, a low-salt diet is not indicated.

The labor of a pregnant woman with preeclampsia is going to be induced. Before initiating the oxytocin infusion, the nurse reviews the woman's latest laboratory test findings, which reveal a platelet count of 90,000 mm3 , an elevated aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) level, and a falling hematocrit. The laboratory results are indicative of which condition? a. Eclampsia b. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) syndrome c. Hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels, and low platelet levels (HELLP) syndrome d. Idiopathic thrombocytopenia

ANS: C HELLP syndrome is a laboratory diagnosis for a variant of severe preeclampsia that involves hepatic dysfunction characterized by hemolysis (H), elevated liver (EL) enzymes, and low platelets (LP). Eclampsia is determined by the presence of seizures. DIC is a potential complication associated with HELLP syndrome. Idiopathic thrombocytopenia is the presence of low platelets of unknown cause and is not associated with preeclampsia.

To manage her diabetes appropriately and to ensure a good fetal outcome, how would the pregnant woman with diabetes alter her diet? a. Eat six small equal meals per day. b. Reduce the carbohydrates in her diet. c. Eat her meals and snacks on a fixed schedule. d. Increase her consumption of protein.

ANS: C Having a fixed meal schedule will provide the woman and the fetus with a steady blood sugar level, provide a good balance with insulin administration, and help prevent complications. Having a fixed meal schedule is more important than the equal division of food intake. Approximately 45% of the food eaten should be in the form of carbohydrates

Which statement regarding the laboratory test for glycosylated hemoglobin Alc is correct? a. The laboratory test for glycosylated hemoglobin Alc is performed for all pregnant women, not only those with or likely to have diabetes. b. This laboratory test is a snapshot of glucose control at the moment. c. This laboratory test measures the levels of hemoglobin Alc, which should remain at less than 7%. d. This laboratory test is performed on the woman's urine, not her blood.

ANS: C Hemoglobin Alc levels greater than 7% indicate an elevated glucose level during the previous 4 to 6 weeks. This extra laboratory test is for diabetic women and defines glycemic control over the previous 4 to 6 weeks. Glycosylated hemoglobin level tests are performed on the blood.

With regard to weight gain during pregnancy, the nurse should be aware of which important information? a. In pregnancy, the woman's height is not a factor in determining her target weight. b. Obese women may have their health concerns, but their risk of giving birth to a child with major congenital defects is the same as with women of normal weight. c. Women with inadequate weight gain have an increased risk of delivering a preterm infant with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). d. Greater than expected weight gain during pregnancy is almost always attributable to old-fashioned overeating.

ANS: C IUGR is associated with women with inadequate weight gain. The primary factor in making a weight gain recommendation is the appropriateness of the prepregnancy weight for the woman's height. Obese women are twice as likely as women of normal weight to give birth to a child with major congenital defects. Overeating is only one of several likely causes.

A pregnant woman at term is transported to the emergency department (ED) after a severe vehicular accident. The obstetric nurse responds and rushes to the ED with a fetal monitor. Cardiopulmonary arrest occurs as the obstetric nurse arrives. What is the highest priority for the trauma team? a. Obtaining IV access, and starting aggressive fluid resuscitation b. Quickly applying the fetal monitor to determine whether the fetus viability c. Starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) d. Transferring the woman to the surgical unit for an emergency cesarean delivery in case the fetus is still alive

ANS: C In a situation of severe maternal trauma, the systematic evaluation begins with a primary survey and the initial ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation) of resuscitation. CPR is initiated first, followed by intravenous (IV) replacement fluid. After immediate resuscitation and successful stabilization measures, a more detailed secondary survey of the mother and fetus should be accomplished. Attempts at maternal resuscitation are made, followed by a secondary survey of the fetus. In the presence of multisystem trauma, a cesarean delivery may be indicated to increase the chance for maternal survival.

What should the nurse be cognizant of concerning the client's reordering of personal relationships during pregnancy? a. Because of the special motherhood bond, a woman's relationship with her mother is even more important than with her partner. b. Nurses need not get involved in any sexual issues the couple has during pregnancy, particularly if they have trouble communicating them to each other. c. Women usually express two major relationship needs during pregnancy: feeling loved and valued and having the child accepted by the partner. d. The woman's sexual desire is likely to be highest in the first trimester because of the excitement and because intercourse is physically easier.

ANS: C Love and support help a woman feel better about her pregnancy. The most important person to the pregnant woman is usually her partner. Nurses can facilitate communication between partners about sexual matters if, as is common, they are nervous about expressing their worries and feelings to one another. The second trimester is the time when a woman's sense of well-being, along with certain physical changes, increases her desire for sex. Sexual desire is down in the first and third trimesters.

The nurse is providing contraceptive instruction to a young couple who are eager to learn. The nurse should be cognizant of which information regarding the natural family planning method? a. The natural family planning method is the same as coitus interruptus or "pulling out." b. This contraception method uses the calendar method to align the woman's cycle with the natural phases of the moon. c. This practice is the only contraceptive method acceptable to the Roman Catholic Church. d. The natural family planning method relies on barrier methods during the fertility phases.

ANS: C Natural family planning is the only contraceptive practice acceptable to the Roman Catholic Church. "Pulling out" is not the same as periodic abstinence, another name for natural family planning. The phases of the moon are not part of the calendar method or any method. Natural family planning is another name for periodic abstinence, which is the accepted way to pass safely through the fertility phases without relying on chemical or physical barriers.

A 38-year-old Hispanic woman vaginally delivered a 9-pound, 6-ounce baby girl after being in labor for 43 hours. The baby died 3 days later from sepsis. On what grounds could the woman have a legitimate legal case for negligence? a. Inexperienced maternity nurse was assigned to care for the client. b. Client was past her due date by 3 days. c. Standard of care was not met. d. Client refused electronic fetal monitoring.

ANS: C Not meeting the standard of care is a legitimate factor for a case of negligence. An inexperienced maternity nurse would need to display competency before being assigned to care for clients on his or her own. This client may have been past her due date; however, a term pregnancy often goes beyond 40 weeks of gestation. Although fetal monitoring is the standard of care, the client has the right to refuse treatment. This refusal is not a case for negligence, but informed consent should be properly obtained, and the client should have signed an against medical advice form when refusing any treatment that is within the standard of care

The nurses working at a newly established birthing center have begun to compare their performance in providing maternal-newborn care against clinical standards. This comparison process is most commonly known as what? a. Best practices network b. Clinical benchmarking c. Outcomes-oriented practice d. Evidence-based practice

ANS: C Outcomes-oriented practice measures the effectiveness of the interventions and quality of care against benchmarks or standards. The term best practice refers to a program or service that has been recognized for its excellence. Clinical benchmarking is a process used to compare one's own performance against the performance of the best in an area of service. The term evidence-based practice refers to the provision of care based on evidence gained through research and clinical trials.

The management of the pregnant client who has experienced a pregnancy loss depends on the type of miscarriage and the signs and symptoms. While planning care for a client who desires outpatient management after a first-trimester loss, what would the nurse expect the plan to include? a. Dilation and curettage (D&C) b. Dilation and evacuation (D&E) c. Misoprostol d. Ergot products

ANS: C Outpatient management of a first-trimester loss is safely accomplished by the intravaginal use of misoprostol for up to 2 days. If the bleeding is uncontrollable, vital signs are unstable, or signs of infection are present, then a surgical evacuation should be performed. D&C is a surgical procedure that requires dilation of the cervix and scraping of the uterine walls to remove the contents of pregnancy. This procedure is commonly performed to treat inevitable or incomplete abortion and should be performed in a hospital. D&E is usually performed after 16 weeks of pregnancy. The cervix is widely dilated, followed by removal of the contents of the uterus. Ergot products such as Methergine or Hemabate may be administered for excessive bleeding after miscarriage.

Which clinical finding in a primiparous client at 32 weeks of gestation might be an indication of anemia? a. Ptyalism b. Pyrosis c. Pica d. Decreased peristalsis

ANS: C Pica (a desire to eat nonfood substances) is an indication of iron deficiency and should be evaluated. Cravings include ice, clay, and laundry starch. Ptyalism (excessive salivation), pyrosis (heartburn), and decreased peristalsis are normal findings.

Which female reproductive organ is responsible for cyclic menstruation? a. Uterus b. Ovary c. Vaginal vestibule d. Urethra

ANS:A The uterus is responsible for cyclic menstruation while also housing and nourishing the fertilized ovum and the fetus. The ovaries are responsible for ovulation and the production of estrogen. The vaginal vestibule is an external organ that has openings tothe urethra and vagina. The urethra is not a reproductive organ, although it is found in the area.

Several metabolic changes occur throughout pregnancy. Which physiologic adaptation of pregnancy will influence the nurse's plan of care? a. Insulin crosses the placenta to the fetus only in the first trimester, after which the fetus secretes its own. b. Women with insulin-dependent diabetes are prone to hyperglycemia during the first trimester because they are consuming more sugar. c. During the second and third trimesters, pregnancy exerts a diabetogenic effect that ensures an abundant supply of glucose for the fetus. d. Maternal insulin requirements steadily decline during pregnancy.

ANS: C Pregnant women develop increased insulin resistance during the second and third trimesters. Insulin never crosses the placenta; the fetus starts making its own around the 10th week. As a result of normal metabolic changes during pregnancy, insulin-dependent women are prone to hypoglycemia (low levels). Maternal insulin requirements may double or quadruple by the end of pregnancy.

A primigravida is being monitored at the prenatal clinic for preeclampsia. Which finding is of greatest concern to the nurse? a. Blood pressure (BP) increase to 138/86 mm Hg b. Weight gain of 0.5 kg during the past 2 weeks c. Dipstick value of 3+ for protein in her urine d. Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day

ANS: C Proteinuria is defined as a concentration of 1+ or greater via dipstick measurement. A dipstick value of 3+ alerts the nurse that additional testing or assessment should be performed. A 24-hour urine collection is preferred over dipstick testing attributable to accuracy. Generally, hypertension is defined as a BP of 140/90 mm Hg or an increase in systolic pressure of 30 mm Hg or diastolic pressure of 15 mm Hg. Preeclampsia may be demonstrated as a rapid weight gain of more than 2 kg in 1 week. Edema occurs in many normal pregnancies, as well as in women with preeclampsia. Therefore, the presence of edema is no longer considered diagnostic of preeclampsia.

A pregnant woman has been receiving a magnesium sulfate infusion for treatment of severe preeclampsia for 24 hours. On assessment, the nurse finds the following vital signs: temperature 37.3° C, pulse rate 88 beats per minute, respiratory rate 10 breaths per minute, BP 148/90 mm Hg, absent deep tendon reflexes (DTRs), and no ankle clonus. The client complains, "I'm so thirsty and warm." What is the nurse's immediate action? a. To call for an immediate magnesium sulfate level b. To administer oxygen c. To discontinue the magnesium sulfate infusion d. To prepare to administer hydralazine

ANS: C Regardless of the magnesium level, the client is displaying the clinical signs and symptoms of magnesium toxicity. The first action by the nurse should be to discontinue the infusion of magnesium sulfate. In addition, calcium gluconate, the antidote for magnesium, may be administered. Hydralazine is an antihypertensive drug commonly used to treat hypertension in severe preeclampsia. Typically, hydralazine is administered for a systolic BP higher than 160 mm Hg or a diastolic BP higher than 110 mm Hg.

Which statement most accurately describes the HELLP syndrome? a. Mild form of preeclampsia b. Diagnosed by a nurse alert to its symptoms c. Characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets d. Associated with preterm labor but not perinatal mortality

ANS: C The acronym HELLP stands for hemolysis (H), elevated liver (EL) enzymes, and low platelets (LP). The HELLP syndrome is a variant of severe preeclampsia and is difficult to identify because the symptoms are not often obvious. The HELLP syndrome must be diagnosed in the laboratory. Preterm labor is greatly increased; therefore, so is perinatal mortality.

A client arrives for her initial prenatal examination. This is her first child. She asks the nurse, "How does my baby get air inside my uterus?" What is the correct response by the nurse? a. "The baby's lungs work in utero to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide." b. "The baby absorbs oxygen from your blood system." c. "The placenta provides oxygen to the baby and excretes carbon dioxide into your bloodstream." d. "The placenta delivers oxygen-rich blood through the umbilical artery to the baby's abdomen."

ANS: C The placenta delivers oxygen-rich blood through the umbilical vein, not the artery, to the fetus and excretes carbon dioxide into the maternal bloodstream. The fetal lungs do not function as respiratory gas exchange in utero. The baby does not simply absorb oxygen from a woman's blood system; rather, blood and gas transport occur through the placenta.

Dental care during pregnancy is an important component of good prenatal care. Which instruction regarding dental health should the nurse provide? a. Regular brushing and flossing may not be necessary during early pregnancy because it may stimulate the woman who is already nauseated to vomit. A cleaning is all that is necessary. b. Dental surgery is contraindicated during pregnancy and should be delayed until after delivery. c. If dental treatment is necessary, then the woman will be most comfortable with it in the second trimester. d. If a woman has dental anxiety, then dental care may interfere with the expectant mother's need to practice conscious relaxation and to prepare for labor.

ANS: C The second trimester is the best time for dental treatment because the woman will be able to sit most comfortably in the dental chair. Dental care, such as brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, is especially important during pregnancy. Periodontal disease has been linked to both preterm labor and low-birth-weight (LBW) infants. Emergency dental surgery is permissible; however, the mother must clearly understand the risks and benefits. Conscious relaxation is useful and may even help the woman get through any dental appointments, but it is not a reason to avoid them.

Which consideration is essential for the nurse to understand regarding follow-up prenatal care visits? a. The interview portions become more intensive as the visits become more frequent over the course of the pregnancy. b. Monthly visits are scheduled for the first trimester, every 2 weeks for the second trimester, and weekly for the third trimester. c. During the abdominal examination, the nurse should be alert for supine hypotension. d. For pregnant women, a systolic BP of 130 mm Hg and a diastolic BP of 80 mm Hg is sufficient to be considered hypertensive

ANS: C The woman lies on her back during the abdominal examination, possibly compressing the vena cava and aorta, which can cause a decrease in BP and a feeling of faintness. The interview portion of the follow-up examinations is less extensive than in the initial prenatal visits, during which so much new information must be gathered. Monthly visits are routinely scheduled for the first and second trimesters; visits increase to every 2 weeks at week 28 and to once a week at week 36. For pregnant women, hypertension is defined as a systolic BP of 140 mm Hg or higher and a diastolic BP of 90 mm Hg or higher

Which client exhibits the greatest number of risk factors associated with the development of preeclampsia? a. 30-year-old obese Caucasian with her third pregnancy b. 41-year-old Caucasian primigravida c. 19-year-old African American who is pregnant with twins d. 25-year-old Asian American whose pregnancy is the result of donor insemination

ANS: C Three risk factors are present in the 19-year-old African-American client. She has African-American ethnicity, is at the young end of the age distribution, and has a multiple pregnancy. In planning care for this client, the nurse must frequently monitor her BP and teach her to recognize the early warning signs of preeclampsia. The 30-year-old obese Caucasian client has only has one known risk factor: obesity. Age distribution appears to be U-shaped, with women younger than 20 years of age and women older than 40 years of age being at greatest risk. Preeclampsia continues to be more frequently observed in primigravidas; this client is a multigravida woman. Two risk factors are present for the 41-year-old Caucasian primigravida client. Her age and status as a primigravida place her at increased risk for preeclampsia. Caucasian women are at a lower risk than are African-American women. The 25-year-old Asian-American client exhibits only one risk factor. Pregnancies that result from donor insemination, oocyte donation, and embryo donation are at an increased risk of developing preeclampsia.

A woman will be taking oral contraceptives using a 28-day pack. What advice should the nurse provide to protect this client from an unintended pregnancy? a. Limit sexual contact for one cycle after starting the pill. b. Use condoms and foam instead of the pill for as long as the client takes an antibiotic. c. Take one pill at the same time every day. d. Throw away the pack and use a backup method if two pills are missed during week 1 of her cycle.

ANS: C To maintain adequate hormone levels for contraception and to enhance compliance, clients should take oral contraceptives at the same time each day. If contraceptives are to be started at any time other than during normal menses or within 3 weeks after birth or an abortion, then another method of contraception should be used through the first week to prevent the risk of pregnancy. Taken exactly as directed, oral contraceptives prevent ovulation, and pregnancy cannot occur. No strong pharmacokinetic evidence indicates a link between the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and altered hormonal levels in oral contraceptive users. If the client misses two pills during week 1, then she should take two pills a day for 2 days and finish the package and use a backup contraceptive method for the next 7 consecutive days.

A pregnant woman at 10 weeks of gestation jogs three or four times per week. She is concerned about the effect of the exercise on the fetus. Which guidance should the nurse provide? a. "You don't need to modify your exercising any time during your pregnancy." b. "Stop exercising because it will harm the fetus." c. "You may find that you need to modify your exercise to walking later in your pregnancy, around the seventh month." d. "Jogging is too hard on your joints; switch to walking now."

ANS: C Typically, running should be replaced with walking around the seventh month of pregnancy. The nurse should inform the woman that she may need to reduce her exercise level as the pregnancy progresses. Physical activity promotes a feeling of well-being in pregnant women. It improves circulation, promotes relaxation and rest, and counteracts boredom. Simple measures should be initiated to prevent injuries, such as warm-up and stretching exercises to prepare the joints for more strenuous exercise.

A woman arrives at the clinic for a pregnancy test. Her last menstrual period (LMP) was February 14, 2019. What is the client's expected date of birth (EDB)? a. September 17, 2019 b. November 7, 2019 c. November 21, 2019 d. December 17, 2019

ANS: C Using the Nägele's rule, the EDB is calculated by subtracting 3 months from the month of the LMP and adding 7 days + 1 year to the day of the LMP. Therefore, with an LMP of February 14, 2019, her due date is November 21, 2019. September 17, 2019 is too short a period to complete a normal pregnancy. Using the Nägele's rule, an EDB of November 7, 2019, is 2 weeks early. December 17, 2019 is almost a month past the correct EDB.

Which neurologic condition would require preconception counseling, if possible? a. Eclampsia b. Bell palsy c. Epilepsy d. Multiple sclerosis

ANS: C Women with epilepsy should receive preconception counseling, if at all possible. Achieving seizure control before becoming pregnant is a desirable state. Medication should also be carefully reviewed. Eclampsia may sometimes be confused with epilepsy, and Bell palsy is a form of facial paralysis; preconception counseling for either condition is not essential to care. Multiple sclerosis is a patchy demyelination of the spinal cord that does not affect the normal course of pregnancy or birth.

A pregnant couple has formulated a birth plan and is reviewing it with the nurse at an expectant parent's class. Which aspect of their birth plan should be considered potentially unrealistic and require further discussion with the nurse? a. "My partner and I have agreed that my sister will be my coach because he becomes anxious with regard to medical procedures and blood. He will be nearby and check on me every so often to make sure everything is okay." b. "We plan to use the techniques taught in the Lamaze classes to reduce the pain experienced during labor." c. "We want the labor and birth to take place in a birthing room. My partner will come in the minute the baby is born." d. "Regardless of the circumstances, we do not want the fetal monitor used during labor because it will interfere with movement and doing effleurage."

ANS: D

A woman who is 16 weeks pregnant has come in for a follow-up visit with her partner. To reassure the client regarding fetal well-being, which is the highest priority action for the nurse to perform? a. Assess the fetal heart tones with a Doppler stethoscope. b. Measure and document the girth of the woman's abdomen. c. Complete an ultrasound examination (sonogram) in a timely manner. d. Offer the woman and her partner the opportunity to listen to the fetal heart tones.

ANS: D

Numerous changes in the integumentary system occur during pregnancy. Which change persists after birth? a. Epulis b. Chloasma c. Telangiectasia d. Striae gravidarum

ANS: D

Nutrition is an alterable and important preventive measure for a variety of potential problems such as low birth weight and prematurity. While completing the physical assessment of the pregnant client, the nurse can evaluate the client's nutritional status by observing a number of physical signs. Which physical sign indicates to the nurse that the client has unmet nutritional needs? a. Normal heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure b. Bright, clear, and shiny eyes c. Alert and responsive with good endurance d. Edema, tender calves, and tingling

ANS: D

While assessing the vital signs of a pregnant woman in her third trimester, the client reports feeling faint, dizzy, and agitated. Which nursing intervention is appropriate? a. Have the patient stand up, and then retake her BP. b. Have the patient sit down, and then hold her arm in a dependent position. c. Have the patient lie supine for 5 minutes, and then recheck her BP on both arms. d. Have the patient turn to her left side, and then recheck her BP in 5 minutes.

ANS: D BP is affected by maternal position during pregnancy. The supine position may cause occlusion of the vena cava and descending aorta. Turning the pregnant woman to a lateral recumbent position alleviates pressure on the blood vessels and quickly corrects supine hypotension. Pressures are significantly higher when the client is standing. This option causes an increase in systolic and diastolic pressures. The arm should be supported at the same level of the heart. The supine position may cause occlusion of the vena cava and descending aorta, creating hypotension.

What is the importance of obtaining informed consent when educating a client regarding contraceptive methods? a. Contraception is an invasive procedure that requires hospitalization. b. The method may require a surgical procedure to insert a device. c. The contraception method chosen may be unreliable. d. The method chosen has potentially dangerous side effects.

ANS: D Being aware of the potential side effects is important for couples who are making an informed decision about the use of contraceptives. The only contraceptive method that is a surgical procedure and requires hospitalization is sterilization. Some methods have greater efficacy than others, and this efficacy should be included in the teaching.

Which structure is responsible for oxygen and carbon dioxide transport to and from the maternal bloodstream? a. Decidua basalis b. Blastocyst c. Germ layer d. Chorionic villi

ANS: D Chorionic villi are fingerlike projections that develop out of the trophoblast and extend into the blood-filled spaces of the endometrium. The villi obtain oxygen and nutrients from the maternal bloodstream and dispose carbon dioxide and waste products into the maternal blood. The decidua basalis is the portion of the decidua (endometrium) under the blastocyst where the villi attach. The blastocyst is the embryonic development stage after the morula; implantation occurs at this stage. The germ layer is a layer of the blastocyst.

The nurse has evaluated a client with preeclampsia by assessing deep tendon reflexes (DTRs). The result is a grade of 3+. Which DTR response most accurately describes this score? a. Sluggish or diminished b. Brisk, hyperactive, with intermittent or transient clonus c. Active or expected response d. More brisk than expected, slightly hyperactive

ANS: D DTRs reflect the balance between the cerebral cortex and the spinal cord. They are evaluated at baseline and to detect changes. A slightly hyperactive and brisk response indicates a grade 3+ response.

A woman in the 34th week of pregnancy reports that she is very uncomfortable because of heartburn. Which recommendation would be appropriate for this client? a. Substitute other calcium sources for milk in her diet. b. Lie down after each meal. c. Reduce the amount of fiber she consumes. d. Eat five small meals daily.

ANS: D Eating small, frequent meals may help with heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. Substituting other calcium sources for milk, lying down after eating, and reducing fiber intake are inappropriate dietary suggestions for all pregnant women and do not alleviate heartburn

A woman with preeclampsia has a seizure. What is the nurse's highest priority during a seizure? a. To insert an oral airway b. To suction the mouth to prevent aspiration c. To administer oxygen by mask d. To stay with the client and call for help

ANS: D If a client becomes eclamptic, then the nurse should stay with the client and call for help. Nursing actions during a convulsion are directed toward ensuring a patent airway and client safety. Insertion of an oral airway during seizure activity is no longer the standard of care. The nurse should attempt to keep the airway patent by turning the client's head to the side to prevent aspiration. Once the seizure has ended, it may be necessary to suction the client's mouth. Oxygen is administered after the convulsion has ended.

Which gastrointestinal alteration of pregnancy is a normal finding? a. Insufficient salivation (ptyalism) is caused by increases in estrogen. b. Acid indigestion (pyrosis) begins early but declines throughout pregnancy. c. Hyperthyroidism often develops (temporarily) because hormone production increases. d. Nausea and vomiting rarely have harmful effects on the fetus and may be beneficial.

ANS: D Normal nausea and vomiting rarely produce harmful effects and may be less likely to result in miscarriage or preterm labor. Ptyalism is excessive salivation that may be caused by a decrease in unconscious swallowing or by stimulation of the salivary glands. Pyrosis begins as early as the first trimester and intensifies through the third trimester. Increased hormone production does not lead to hyperthyroidism in pregnant women.

During a prenatal intake interview, the nurse is in the process of obtaining an initial assessment of a 21-year-old Hispanic client with limited English proficiency. Which intervention is the most important for the nurse to implement? a. Use maternity jargon to enable the client to become familiar with these terms. b. Speak quickly and efficiently to expedite the visit. c. Provide the client with handouts. d. Assess whether the client understands the discussion.

ANS: D Nurses contribute to health literacy by using simple, common words, avoiding jargon, and evaluating whether the client understands the discussion. Speaking slowly and clearly and focusing on what is important will increase understanding. Most client education materials are written at a level too high for the average adult and may not be useful for a client with limited English proficiency.

What is a limitation of a home postpartum visit? a. Distractions limit the nurse's ability to teach. b. Identified problems cannot be resolved in the home setting. c. Necessary items for infant care are not available. d. Home visits to different families may require the nurse to travel a great distance.

ANS: D One limitation of home health visits is the distance the nurse must travel between clients. Driving directions should be obtained by telephone before the visit. The home care nurse is accustomed to distractions but may request that the television be turned off so that attention can be focused on the client and her family. Problems cannot always be resolved; however, appropriate referrals may be arranged by the nurse. The nurse is required to bring any necessary equipment, such as a thermometer, baby scale, or laptop computer, for documentation.

Many pregnant women have questions regarding work and travel during pregnancy. Which education is a priority for the nurse to provide? a. Women should sit for as long as possible and cross their legs at the knees from time to time for exercise. b. Women should avoid seat belts and shoulder restraints in the car because they press on the fetus. c. Metal detectors at airport security checkpoints can harm the fetus if the woman passes through them several times. d. While working or traveling in a car or on an airplane, women should arrange to walk around at least every hour or so.

ANS: D Periodic walking helps prevent thrombophlebitis. Pregnant women should avoid sitting or standing for long periods and crossing the legs at the knees. Pregnant women must wear lap belts and shoulder restraints. The most common injury to the fetus comes from injury to the mother. Metal detectors at airport security checkpoints do not harm fetuses.

Which physiologic alteration of pregnancy most significantly affects glucose metabolism? a. Pancreatic function in the islets of Langerhans is affected by pregnancy. b. Pregnant women use glucose at a more rapid rate than nonpregnant women. c. Pregnant women significantly increase their dietary intake. d. Placental hormones are antagonistic to insulin, thus resulting in insulin resistance.

ANS: D Placental hormones, estrogen, progesterone, and human placental lactogen (HPL) create insulin resistance. Insulin is also broken down more quickly by the enzyme placental insulinase. Pancreatic functioning is not affected by pregnancy. The glucose requirements differ because of the growing fetus. The pregnant woman should increase her intake by 200 calories a day.

Which hormone is essential for maintaining pregnancy? a. Estrogen b. hCG c. Oxytocin d. Progesterone

ANS: D Progesterone is essential for maintaining pregnancy; it does so by relaxing smooth muscles, which reduces uterine activity and prevents miscarriage. Estrogen plays a vital role in pregnancy, but it is not the primary hormone for maintaining pregnancy. hCG levels rise at implantation but decline after 60 to 70 days. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions.

When attempting to communicate with a client who speaks a different language, which action is the most appropriate? a. Promptly and positively respond to project authority. b. Never use a family member as an interpreter. c. Talk to the interpreter to avoid confusing the client. d. Provide as much privacy as possible

ANS: D Providing privacy creates an atmosphere of respect and puts the client at ease. The nurse should not rush to judgment and should ensure she or he clearly understands the client's message. In crisis situations, the nurse may need to use a family member or neighbor as a translator. The nurse should speak directly to the client to create an atmosphere of respect.

A client states that she does not drink milk. Which foods should the nurse encourage this woman to consume in greater amounts to increase her calcium intake? a. Fresh apricots b. Canned clams c. Spaghetti with meat sauce d. Canned sardines

ANS: D Sardines are rich in calcium. Fresh apricots, canned clams, and spaghetti with meat sauce are not high in calcium.

A pregnant woman's diet may not meet her increased need for folates. Which food is a rich source of this nutrient? a. Chicken b. Cheese c. Potatoes d. Green leafy vegetables

ANS: D Sources of folates include green leafy vegetables, whole grains, fruits, liver, dried peas, and beans. Chicken and cheese are excellent sources of protein but are poor sources for folates. Potatoes contain carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals but are poor sources for folates.

In comparing the abdominal and transvaginal methods of ultrasound examination, which information should the nurse provide to the client? a. Both require the woman to have a full bladder. b. The abdominal examination is more useful in the first trimester. c. Initially, the transvaginal examination can be painful. d. The transvaginal examination allows pelvic anatomy to be evaluated in greater detail.

ANS: D The transvaginal examination allows pelvic anatomy to be evaluated in greater detail than the abdominal method and also allows intrauterine pregnancies to be diagnosed earlier. The abdominal examination requires a full bladder; the transvaginal examination requires an empty one. The transvaginal examination is more useful in the first trimester; the abdominal examination works better after the first trimester. Neither the abdominal nor the transvaginal method of ultrasound examination should be painful, although the woman will feel pressure as the probe is moved during the transvaginal examination

Which action is the priority for the nurse who is assessing the influence of culture on a client's diet? a. Evaluate the client's weight gain during pregnancy. b. Assess the socioeconomic status of the client. c. Discuss the four food groups with the client. d. Identify food preferences and methods of food preparation

ANS: D Understanding the client's food preferences and how she prepares food will assist the nurse in determining whether the client's culture is adversely affecting her nutritional intake. An evaluation of a client's weight gain during pregnancy should be included for all clients, not only for clients from different cultural backgrounds. The socioeconomic status of the client may alter the nutritional intake but not the cultural influence. Teaching the food groups to the client should come after assessing her food preferences.

A woman diagnosed with gestational diabetes has had little or no experience reading and interpreting glucose levels. The client shows the nurse her readings for the past few days. Which reading signals the nurse that the client may require an adjustment of insulin or carbohydrates? a. 75 mg/dl before lunch. This is low; better eat now. b. 115 mg/dl 1 hour after lunch. This is a little high; maybe eat a little less next time. c. 115 mg/dl 2 hours after lunch. This is too high; it is time for insulin. d. 50 mg/dl just after waking up from a nap. This is too low; maybe eat a snack before going to sleep.

ANS: D 50 mg/dl after waking from a nap is too low. During hours of sleep, glucose levels should not be less than 60 mg/dl. Snacks before sleeping can be helpful. The premeal acceptable range is 60 to 99 mg/dl. The readings 1 hour after a meal should be less than 129 mg/dl. Two hours after eating, the readings should be less than 120 mg/dl.

Which body part both protects the pelvic structures and accommodates the growing fetus during pregnancy? a. Perineum b. Bony pelvis c. Vaginal vestibule d. Fourchette

ANS:B The bony pelvis protects and accommodates the growing fetus. The perineum covers the pelvic structures. The vaginal vestibule contains openings to the urethra and vagina. The area of thin, flat tissue called the fourchette is formed by the labia minor and is found underneath the vaginal opening.

A woman has come to the clinic for preconception counseling because she wants to start trying to get pregnant. Which guidance should she expect to receive? a. "Discontinue all contraception now." b. "Lose weight so that you can gain more during pregnancy." c. "You may take any medications you have been regularly taking." d. "Make sure you include adequate folic acid in your diet."

ANS: D A healthy diet before conception is the best way to ensure that adequate nutrients are available for the developing fetus. A woman's folate or folic acid intake is of particular concern in the periconception period. Neural tube defects are more common in infants of women with a poor folic acid intake. Depending on the type of contraception that she has been using, discontinuing all contraception at this time may not be appropriate. Advising this client to lose weight now so that she can gain more during pregnancy is also not appropriate advice. Depending on the type of medications the woman is taking, continuing to take them regularly may not be appropriate

Which pregnant woman should strictly follow weight gain recommendations during pregnancy? a. Pregnant with twins b. In early adolescence c. Shorter than 62 inches or 157 cm d. Was 20 pounds overweight before pregnancy

ANS: D A weight gain of 5 to 9 kg will provide enough nutrients for the fetus. Overweight and obese women should be advised to lose weight before conception to achieve the best pregnancy outcomes. A higher weight gain in twin gestations may help prevent low birth weights. Adolescents need to gain weight toward the higher acceptable range, which provides for their own growth, as well as for fetal growth. In the past, women of short stature were advised to restrict their weight gain; however, evidence to support these guidelines has not been found.

Which statement regarding the condition referred to as a miscarriage is most accurate? a. A miscarriage is a natural pregnancy loss before labor begins. b. It occurs in fewer than 5% of all clinically recognized pregnancies. c. Careless maternal behavior, such as poor nutrition or excessive exercise, can be a factor in causing a miscarriage. d. If a miscarriage occurs before the 12th week of pregnancy, then it may be observed only as moderate discomfort and blood loss.

ANS: D Before the sixth week, the only evidence might be a heavy menstrual flow. After the 12th week, more severe pain, like that of labor, is likely. Miscarriage is a natural pregnancy loss, but it occurs, by definition, before 20 weeks of gestation, before the fetus is viable. Miscarriages occur in approximately 10% to 15% of all clinically recognized pregnancies. Miscarriages can be caused by several disorders or illnesses outside the mother's control or knowledge.

Postoperative care of the pregnant woman who requires abdominal surgery for appendicitis includes which additional assessment? a. Intake and output (I&O) and intravenous (IV) site b. Signs and symptoms of infection c. Vital signs and incision d. Fetal heart rate (FHR) and uterine activity

ANS: D Care of a pregnant woman undergoing surgery for appendicitis differs from that for a nonpregnant woman in one significant aspect: the presence of the fetus. Continuous fetal and uterine monitoring should take place. An assessment of I&O levels, along with an assessment of the IV site, are normal postoperative care procedures. Evaluating the client for signs and symptoms of infection is also part of routine postoperative care. Routine vital signs and evaluation of the incision site are expected components of postoperative care

To reassure and educate their pregnant clients regarding changes in their blood pressure, nurses should be cognizant of what? a. A blood pressure cuff that is too small produces a reading that is too low; a cuff that is too large produces a reading that is too high. b. Shifting the client's position and changing from arm to arm for different measurements produces the most accurate composite blood pressure reading at each visit. c. Systolic blood pressure slightly increases as the pregnancy advances; diastolic pressure remains constant. d. Compression of the iliac veins and inferior vena cava by the uterus contributes to hemorrhoids in the later stage of a term pregnancy.

ANS: D Compression of the iliac veins and inferior vena cava by the uterus contributes to hemorrhoids in the later stage of a term pregnancy. This compression also leads to varicose veins in the legs and vulva. The tightness of a blood pressure cuff that is too small produces a reading that is too high; similarly, the looseness of a cuff that is too large results in a reading that is too low. Because maternal positioning affects readings, blood pressure measurements should be obtained in the same arm and with the woman in the same position. The systolic blood pressure generally remains constant but may decline slightly as the pregnancy advances. The diastolic blood pressure first decreases and then gradually increases.

A 23-year-old African-American woman is pregnant with her first child. Based on current statistics for infant mortality, which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the client's plan of care? a. Perform a nutrition assessment. b. Refer the woman to a social worker. c. Advise the woman to see an obstetrician, not a midwife. d. Explain to the woman the importance of keeping her prenatal care appointments

ANS: D Consistent prenatal care is the best method of preventing or controlling risk factors associated with infant mortality. Nutritional status is an important modifiable risk factor, but it is not the most important action a nurse should take in this situation. The client may need assistance from a social worker at some time during her pregnancy, but a referral to a social worker is not the most important aspect the nurse should address at this time. If the woman has identifiable high-risk problems, then her health care may need to be provided by a physician. However, it cannot be assumed that all African-American women have high-risk issues. In addition, advising the woman to see an obstetrician is not the most important aspect on which the nurse should focus at this time, and it is not appropriate for a nurse to advise or manage the type of care a client is to receive.

Which statement regarding the term contraceptive failure rate is the most accurate? a. The contraceptive failure rate refers to the percentage of users expected to have an accidental pregnancy over a 5-year span. b. It refers to the minimum rate that must be achieved to receive a government license. c. The contraceptive failure rate increases over time as couples become more careless. d. It varies from couple to couple, depending on the method and the users.

ANS: D Contraceptive effectiveness varies from couple to couple, depending on how well a contraceptive method is used and how well it suits the couple. The contraceptive failure rate measures the likelihood of accidental pregnancy in the first year only. Failure rates decline over time because users gain experience.

A woman who is 8 months pregnant asks the nurse, "Does my baby have any antibodies to fight infection?" What is the most appropriate response by the nurse? a. "Your baby has all the immunoglobulins necessary: immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and immunoglobulin A (IgA)." b. "Your baby won't receive any antibodies until he is born and you breastfeed him." c. "Your baby does not have any antibodies to fight infection." d. "Your baby has IgG and IgM."

ANS: D During the third trimester, IgG is the only immunoglobulin that crosses the placenta; it provides passive acquired immunity to specific bacterial toxins. However, the fetus produces IgM by the end of the first trimester. IgA immunoglobulins are not produced by the baby. Therefore, by the third trimester, the fetus has both IgG and IgM. Breastfeeding supplies the newborn infant with IgA.

A woman is 3 months pregnant. At her prenatal visit she tells the nurse that she does not know what is happening; one minute she is happy that she is pregnant and the next minute she cries for no reason. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? a. "Don't worry about it; you'll feel better in a month or so. b. "Have you talked to your husband about how you feel?" c. "Perhaps you really don't want to be pregnant." d. "Hormone changes during pregnancy commonly result in mood swings."

ANS: D Explaining that hormone changes can result in mood swings is an accurate statement and the most appropriate response by the nurse. Telling the woman not to worry dismisses her concerns and is not the most appropriate response. Although the woman should be encouraged to share her feelings, asking if she has spoken to her husband about them is not the most appropriate response and does not provide her with a rationale for the psychosocial dynamics of her pregnancy. Suggesting that the woman does not want to be pregnant is completely inappropriate and deleterious to the psychologic well-being of the woman. Hormonal and metabolic adaptations often cause mood swings in pregnancy. The woman's responses are normal. She should be reassured about her feelings.

When the nurse is unsure how to perform a client care procedure that is high risk and low volume, his or her best action in this situation would be what? a. Ask another nurse. b. Discuss the procedure with the client's physician. c. Look up the procedure in a nursing textbook. d. First consult the agency procedure manual

ANS: D Following the agency's policies and procedures manual is always best when seeking information on correct client procedures. These policies should reflect the current standards of care and the individual state's guidelines. Each nurse is responsible for his or her own practice. Relying on another nurse may not always be a safe practice. Each nurse is obligated to follow the standards of care for safe client care delivery. Physicians are responsible for their own client care activity. Nurses may follow safe orders from physicians, but they are also responsible for the activities that they, as nurses, are to carry out. Information provided in a nursing textbook is basic information for general knowledge. Furthermore, the information in a textbook may not reflect the current standard of care or the individual state or hospital policies.

hCG is an important biochemical marker for pregnancy and therefore the basis for many tests. Which statement regarding hCG is true? a. hCG can be detected as early as weeks after conception. b. hCG levels gradually and uniformly increase throughout pregnancy. c. Significantly lower-than-normal increases in the levels of hCG may indicate a postdate pregnancy. d. Higher-than-normal levels of hCG may indicate an ectopic pregnancy or Down syndrome.

ANS: D Higher hCG levels also could be a sign of a multiple gestation. hCG can be detected as early as 7 to 10 days after conception. The hCG levels fluctuate during pregnancy, peaking, declining, stabilizing, and then increasing again. Abnormally slow increases may indicate impending miscarriage.

Which vitamins or minerals may lead to congenital malformations of the fetus if taken in excess by the mother? a. Zinc b. Vitamin D c. Folic acid d. Vitamin A

ANS: D If taken in excess, vitamin A causes a number of problems. An analog of vitamin A appears in prescribed acne medications, which must not be taken during pregnancy. Zinc, vitamin D, and folic acid are all vital to good maternity and fetal health and are highly unlikely to be consumed in excess.

Pregnancy hormones prepare the vagina for stretching during labor and birth. Which change related to the pelvic viscera should the nurse share with the client? a. Because of several changes in the cervix, abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) tests are easier to evaluate. b. Quickening is a technique of palpating the fetus to engage it in passive movement. c. The deepening color of the vaginal mucosa and cervix (Chadwick sign) usually appears in the second trimester or later as the vagina prepares to stretch during labor. d. Increased vascularity of the vagina increases sensitivity and may lead to a high degree of arousal, especially in the second trimester.

ANS: D Increased sensitivity and an increased interest in sex sometimes go together and frequently occur during the second trimester. These cervical changes make evaluation of abnormal Pap tests more difficult. Quickening is the first recognition of fetal movements by the mother. Ballottement is a technique used to palpate the fetus. The Chadwick sign appears from the 6 to 8 weeks of gestation.

Nurses should be aware of the strengths and limitations of various biochemical assessments during pregnancy. Which statement regarding monitoring techniques is the most accurate? a. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is becoming more popular because it provides early diagnosis. b. Maternal serum AFP (MSAFP) screening is recommended only for women at risk for neural tube defects (NTDs). c. Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) is one of the triple-marker tests for Down syndrome. d. Maternal serum AFP (MSAFP) is a screening tool only; it identifies candidates for more definitive diagnostic procedures.

ANS: D MSAFP is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool. CVS provides a rapid result, but it is declining in popularity because of advances in noninvasive screening techniques. An MSAFP screening is recommended for all pregnant women. MSAFP screening, not PUBS, is part of the triple-marker tests for Down syndrome.

What form of heart disease in women of childbearing years generally has a benign effect on pregnancy? a. Cardiomyopathy b. Rheumatic heart disease c. Congenital heart disease d. Mitral valve prolapse

ANS: D Mitral valve prolapse is a benign condition that is usually asymptomatic. Cardiomyopathy produces congestive heart failure during pregnancy. Rheumatic heart disease can lead to heart failure during pregnancy. Some congenital heart diseases produce pulmonary hypertension or endocarditis during pregnancy

A pregnant woman at 33 weeks of gestation is brought to the birthing unit after a minor automobile accident. The client is experiencing no pain and no vaginal bleeding, her vital signs are stable, and the fetal heart rate (FHR) is 132 beats per minute with variability. What is the nurse's highest priority? a. Monitoring the woman for a ruptured spleen b. Obtaining a physician's order to discharge her home c. Monitoring her for 24 hours d. Using continuous electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) for a minimum of 4 hours

ANS: D Monitoring the external FHR and contractions is recommended after blunt trauma in a viable gestation for a minimum of 4 hours, regardless of injury severity. Fetal monitoring should be initiated as soon as the woman is stable. In this scenario, no clinical findings indicate the possibility of a ruptured spleen. If the maternal and fetal findings are normal, then EFM should continue for a minimum of 4 hours after a minor trauma or a minor automobile accident. Once the monitoring has been completed and the health care provider is reassured of fetal well-being, the client may be discharged home. Monitoring for 24 hours is unnecessary unless the ERM strip is abnormal or nonreassuring.

Another common pregnancy-specific condition is pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP). A client asks the nurse why she has developed this condition and what can be done. What is the nurse's best response? a. PUPPP is associated with decreased maternal weight gain. b. The rate of hypertension decreases with PUPPP. c. This common pregnancy-specific condition is associated with a poor fetal outcome. d. The goal of therapy is to relieve discomfort.

ANS: D PUPPP is associated with increased maternal weight gain, increased rate of twin gestation, and hypertension. It is not, however, associated with poor maternal or fetal outcomes. The goal of therapy is simply to relieve discomfort. Antipruritic topical medications, topical steroids, and antihistamines usually provide relief. PUPPP usually resolves before childbirth or shortly thereafter.

A 32-year-old primigravida is admitted with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Which information assists the nurse in developing the plan of care? a. Bed rest and analgesics are the recommended treatment. b. She will be unable to conceive in the future. c. A D&C will be performed to remove the products of conception. d. Hemorrhage is the primary concern.

ANS: D Severe bleeding occurs if the fallopian tube ruptures. The recommended treatment is to remove the pregnancy before rupture to prevent hemorrhaging. If the tube must be removed, then the woman's fertility will decrease; however, she will not be infertile. A D&C is performed on the inside of the uterine cavity. The ectopic pregnancy is located within the tubes

Which sign or symptom is considered a first-trimester warning sign and should be immediately reported by the pregnant woman to her health care provider? a. Nausea with occasional vomiting b. Fatigue c. Urinary frequency d. Vaginal bleeding

ANS: D Signs and symptoms that must be reported include severe vomiting, fever and chills, burning on urination, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and vaginal bleeding. These symptoms may be signs of complications of the pregnancy. Nausea with occasional vomiting is a normal first-trimester complaint. Although it may be worrisome or annoying to the mother, it is not usually an indication of a problem with the pregnancy. Fatigue is common during the first trimester. Because of physiologic changes that happen during pregnancy, clients should be taught that urinary frequency is normal.

When caring for a pregnant woman with cardiac problems, the nurse must be alert for the signs and symptoms of cardiac decompensation. Which critical findings would the nurse find on assessment of the client experiencing this condition? a. Regular heart rate and hypertension b. Increased urinary output, tachycardia, and dry cough c. Shortness of breath, bradycardia, and hypertension d. Edema, crackles, and cyanosis of nails and lips

ANS: D Signs of cardiac decompensation include dyspnea; crackles; an irregular, weak, and rapid pulse; rapid respirations; a moist and frequent cough; generalized edema; increasing fatigue; and cyanosis of the lips and nailbeds. A regular heart rate and hypertension are not generally associated with cardiac decompensation. Of the symptoms of increased urinary output, tachycardia, and dry cough, only tachycardia is indicative of cardiac decompensation. Of the symptoms of shortness of breath, bradycardia, and hypertension, only dyspnea is indicative of cardiac decompensation.

How does the nurse document a non-stress test (NST) during which two or more fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations of 15 beats per minute or more occur with fetal movement in a 20-minute period? a. Nonreactive b. Positive c. Negative d. Reactive

ANS: D The NST is reactive (normal) when two or more FHR accelerations of at least 15 beats per minute (each with a duration of at least 15 seconds) occur in a 20-minute period. A nonreactive result means that the heart rate did not accelerate during fetal movement. A positive result is not used with NST. CST uses positive as a result term. A negative result is not used with NST. CST uses negative as a result term.

A client currently uses a diaphragm and spermicide for contraception. She asks the nurse to explain the major differences between the cervical cap and the diaphragm. What is the most appropriate response by the nurse? a. "No spermicide is used with the cervical cap, so it's less messy." b. "The diaphragm can be left in place longer after intercourse." c. "Repeated intercourse with the diaphragm is more convenient." d. "The cervical cap can be safely used for repeated acts of intercourse without adding more spermicide later."

ANS: D The cervical cap can be inserted hours before sexual intercourse without the need for additional spermicide later. Spermicide should be used inside the cap as an additional chemical barrier. The cervical cap should remain in place for 6 hours after the last act of intercourse. Repeated intercourse with the cervical cap is more convenient because no additional spermicide is needed.

Nurses should be cognizant of what information regarding the non-contraceptive medical effects of combination oral contraceptives (COCs)? a. COCs can cause TSS if the prescription is wrong. b. Hormonal withdrawal bleeding is usually a little more profuse than in normal menstruation and lasts a week for those who use COCs. c. COCs increase the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers. d. Effectiveness of COCs can be altered by some over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.

ANS: D The effectiveness of COCs can be altered by some over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. TSS can occur in some who use the diaphragm, but it is not a consequence of taking oral contraceptive pills. Hormonal withdrawal bleeding usually is lighter than in normal menstruation and lasts a couple of days. Oral contraceptive pills offer protection against the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers.

While obtaining a detailed history from a woman who has recently immigrated from Somalia, the nurse realizes that the client has undergone female genital mutilation. What is the nurse's most appropriate response in this situation? a. "This is a very abnormal practice and rarely seen in the United States." b. "Are you aware of who performed this mutilation so that it can be reported to the authorities?" c. "We will be able to restore fully your circumcision after delivery." d. "The extent of your circumcision will affect the potential for complications."

ANS: D The extent of the circumcision is important. The client may experience pain, bleeding, scarring, or infection and may require surgery before childbirth. Although this practice is not prevalent in the United States, it is very common in many African and Middle Eastern countries for religious reasons. Mentioning that the practice is abnormal and rarely seen in the United States is culturally insensitive. The infibulation may have occurred during infancy or childhood; consequently, the client will have little to no recollection of the event. She would have considered this to be a normal milestone during her growth and development. The International Council of Nurses has spoken out against this procedure as harmful to a woman's health.

In what form do families tend to be the most socially vulnerable? a. Married-blended family b. Extended family c. Nuclear family d. Single-parent family

ANS: D The single-parent family tends to be economically and socially vulnerable, creating an unstable and deprived environment for the growth potential of children. The married-blended family, the extended family, and the nuclear family are not the most socially vulnerable.

A woman who is 14 weeks pregnant tells the nurse that she always had a glass of wine with dinner before she became pregnant. She has abstained during her first trimester and would like to know if it is safe for her to have a drink with dinner now. Which guidance should the nurse provide? a. "Since you're in your second trimester, there's no problem with having one drink with dinner." b. "One drink every night is too much. One drink three times a week should be fine." c. "Since you're in your second trimester, you can drink as much as you like." d. "Because no one knows how much or how little alcohol it takes to cause fetal problems, the best course is to abstain throughout your pregnancy."

ANS: D The statement "Because no one knows how much or how little alcohol it takes to cause fetal problems, the best course is to abstain throughout your pregnancy" is accurate. A safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy has not yet been established. Although the consumption of occasional alcoholic beverages may not be harmful to the mother or her developing fetus, complete abstinence is strongly advised.

A woman arrives at the clinic seeking confirmation that she is pregnant. The following information is obtained: She is 24 years old with a body mass index (BMI) of 17.5. She admits to having used cocaine "several times" during the past year and occasionally drinks alcohol. Her blood pressure is 108/70 mm Hg. The family history is positive for diabetes mellitus and cancer. Her sister recently gave birth to an infant with a neural tube defect (NTD). Which characteristics places this client in a high-risk category? a. Blood pressure, age, BMI b. Drug and alcohol use, age, family history c. Family history, blood pressure (BP), BMI d. Family history, BMI, drug and alcohol abuse

ANS: D The woman's family history of an NTD, her low BMI, and her drug and alcohol use abuse are high risk factors of pregnancy. The woman's BP is normal, and her age does not put her at risk. Her BMI is low and may indicate poor nutritional status, which is a high risk

A woman at 39 weeks of gestation with a history of preeclampsia is admitted to the labor and birth unit. She suddenly experiences increased contraction frequency of every 1 to 2 minutes, dark red vaginal bleeding, and a tense, painful abdomen. Which clinical change does the nurse anticipate? a. Eclamptic seizure b. Rupture of the uterus c. Placenta previa d. Placental abruption

ANS: D Uterine tenderness in the presence of increasing tone may be the earliest sign of placental abruption. Women with preeclampsia are at increased risk for an abruption attributable to decreased placental perfusion. Eclamptic seizures are evidenced by the presence of generalized tonic-clonic convulsions. Uterine rupture exhibits hypotonic uterine activity, signs of hypovolemia, and, in many cases, the absence of pain. Placenta previa exhibits bright red, painless vaginal bleeding.

What information should the nurse be aware of regarding telephonic nursing care such as warm lines? a. Were developed as a reaction to impersonal telephonic nursing care b. Were set up to take complaints concerning health maintenance organizations (HMOs) c. Are the second option when 9-1-1 hotlines are busy d. Refer to community service telephone lines designed to provide new parents with encouragement and basic information

ANS: D Warm lines are one aspect of telephonic nursing care specifically designed to provide new parents with encouragement and basic information. Warm lines and similar services sometimes are set up by HMOs to provide new parents with encouragement and basic information. The name, warm lines, may have been suggested by the term hotlines, but these are not emergency numbers but are designed to provide new parents with encouragement and basic information.

Which statement best describes chronic hypertension? a. Chronic hypertension is defined as hypertension that begins during pregnancy and lasts for the duration of the pregnancy. b. Chronic hypertension is considered severe when the systolic BP is higher than 140 mm Hg or the diastolic BP is higher than 90 mm Hg. c. Chronic hypertension is general hypertension plus proteinuria. d. Chronic hypertension can occur independently of or simultaneously with preeclampsia.

ANS: D Women with chronic hypertension may develop superimposed preeclampsia, which increases the morbidity for both the mother and the fetus. Chronic hypertension is present before pregnancy or diagnosed before the 20 weeks of gestation and persists longer than 6 weeks postpartum. Chronic hypertension becomes severe with a diastolic BP of 110 mm Hg or higher. Proteinuria is an excessive concentration of protein in the urine and is a complication of hypertension, not a defining characteristic.

When the nurse is alone with a battered client, the client seems extremely anxious and says, "It was all my fault. The house was so messy when he got home, and I know he hates that." What is the most suitable response by the nurse? a. "No one deserves to be hurt. It's not your fault. How can I help you?" b "What else do you do that makes him angry enough to hurt you?" c "He will never find out what we talk about. Don't worry. We're here to help you" d "You have to remember that he is frustrated and angry, so he takes it out on you."

ANS:A The nurse should stress that the client is not at fault. Asking what the client did to make her husband angry is placing the blame on the woman and would be an inappropriate statement. The nurse should not providefalse reassurance. To assist the woman, the nurse should be honest. Often the batterer will find out about the conversation.

A young woman arrives at the emergency department and states that she thinks she has been raped. She is sobbing and expresses disbelief that this could happen because the perpetrator was a very close friend. Which statement is most appropriate nursing response? a "Rape is not limited to strangers and frequently occurs by someone who is known to the victim." b "I would be very upset if my best friend did that to me; that is very unusual." c "You must feel very betrayed. In what way do you think you might have ledhim on?" d "This does not sound like rape. Didn't you just change your mind about having sex after the fact?"

ANS:A Acquaintance rape involves individuals who know one another. Sexual assault occurs when the trust of a relationship is violated. Victims may be less prone to recognize what is happening to them because the dynamics are different from those of stranger rape. It is not at all unusual for the victim to know and trust the perpetrator. Stating that the woman might have led the man to attack her indicates that the sexual assault was somehow the victim's fault. This type of mentality is not constructive. Nurses must first reflect on their own feelings and learn to be unbiased when dealing with victims. A statement of this type can be very psychologically damaging to the victim. Nurses must display compassion by first believing what the victim states. The nurse is not responsible for deciphering the facts involving the victim's claim.

Individual irregularities in the ovarian (menstrual) cycle are most often caused by what? a. Variations in the follicular (preovulatory) phase b. Intact hypothalamic-pituitary feedback mechanism c. Functioning corpus luteum d. Prolonged ischemic phase

ANS:A Almost all variations in the length of the ovarian cycle are the result of variations in the length of the follicular phase. This information discounts the other options as being correct. An intact hypothalamic-pituitary feedback mechanism would be regular, not irregular. The luteal phase begins after ovulation. The corpus luteum is dependent on the ovulatory phase and fertilization. During the ischemic phase, the blood supply to the functional endometrium is blocked, and necrosis develops. The functional layer separates from the basal layer, and menstrual bleeding begins.

Which statement indicates that a client requires additional instruction regarding breast self-examination (BSE)? a. "Yellow discharge from my nipple is normal if I'm having my period." b. "I should check my breasts at the same time each month, after my period." c. "I should also feel in my armpit area while performing my breast examination." d. "I should check each breast in a set way, such as in a circular motion."

ANS:A Discharge from the nipples requires further examination from a health care provider. The breasts should be checked at the same time each month. The armpit should also be examined. A circular motion is the best method during which to ascertain any changes in the breast tissue.

Which statement best describes Kegel exercises? a. Kegel exercises were developed to control or reduce incontinent urine loss. b Kegel exercises produce a pleasurable vaginal sensation. c Kegel exercises help manage stress. d Kegel exercises are ineffective without sufficient calcium in the diet.

ANS:A Kegel exercises help control the urge to urinate. Although these exercises may be pleasurable for some, the most important factor is the control they provide over incontinence. Kegel exercises help manage urination, not stress. Calcium in the diet is important but not related to Kegel exercises.

On vaginal examination of a 30-year-old woman, the nurse documents the following findings: profuse, thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge with a "fishy" odor and reports of pruritus. Based upon these findings, which condition would the nurse suspect? a Bacterial vaginosis b Candidiasis c Trichomoniasis d Gonorrhea

ANS:A Most women with bacterial vaginosis complain of a characteristic "fishy" odor. The discharge is usually profuse, thin, and has a white, gray, or milky color. Some women may also experience mild irritation or pruritus. The discharge associated with candidiasis is thick, white, and lumpy and resembles cottage cheese. Trichomoniasis may be asymptomatic, but women commonly have a characteristic yellow-to-green, frothy, mucopurulent, copious, and malodorous discharge. Women with gonorrhea are often asymptomatic.Although they may have a purulent endocervical discharge, the discharge is usually minimal or absent.

Which infection control practice should the nurse use when providing eye prophylaxis to a term newborn possibly infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)? a Wearing gloves. b Wearing mouth, nose, and eye protection. c Wearing a mask. d Washing the hands after medication administration.

ANS:A Standard Precautions should be consistently used in the care of all persons. Personal protective equipment in the form of gloves should be worn during infant eye prophylaxis, care of the umbilical cord, circumcision site care, diaper changes, handling of colostrum, and parenteral procedures. Masks are worn during respiratory isolation or if the health care practitioner has a cough. Mouth, eye, and nose protection are used to protect the mucous membranes if client-care activities are likely to generate splashes or sprays of body fluids. The hands should be washed both before having contact with the client and after administering medications.

Ovarian function and hormone production decline during which transitional phase? a. Climacteric b. Menarche c. Menopause d. Puberty

ANS:A The climacteric phase is a transitional period during which ovarian function and hormone production decline. Menarcheis the term that denotes the first menstruation. Menopauserefers only to the last menstrual period. Pubertyis a broad term that denotes the entire transitional period between childhood and sexual maturity.

Which viral sexually transmitted infection is characterized by a primary infection followed by recurrent episodes? a Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) b Human papillomavirus (HPV) c Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) d Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

ANS:A The initial HSV genital infection is characterized by multiple painful lesions, fever, chills, malaise, and severe dysuria; it may last 2 to 3 weeks. Recurrent episodes of the HSV infection commonly have only local symptoms that usually are less severe than those of the initial infection. With HPV infection, lesions are a chronic problem. The HIV is a retrovirus. Seroconversion to HIV positivity usually occurs within 6 to 12 weeks after the virus has entered the body. Severe depression of the cellular immune system associated with the HIV infection characterizes AIDS, which has no cure. In most adults, the onset of CMV infection is uncertain and asymptomatic. However, the disease may become a chronic, persistent infection.

Which statement made by a nurse regarding the prophylactic vaccination to prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) demonstrates a need for further education? a "Currently there is only one vaccine for the HPV available." b "The vaccine is given in three doses over a 6-month period." c "The vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls." d "Ideally, the vaccine is administered before the first sexual contact."

ANS:A Three vaccines for HPV are available—Cervarix, Gardasil and Gardasil 9—and other vaccines continue to be investigated. They are most effective if administered before the first sexual contact. Recommendations are that vaccines be administered to 11-and 12-year-old girls and boys. The vaccine can be given to girls as young as 9 years of age and young women ages 13 to 26 years in three doses over a 6-month period.

Which condition is likely the biggest risk for the pregnant client? a Preeclampsia b Intimate partner violence (IPV) c Diabetes d Abnormal Pap test

ANS:B The prevalence of IPV during pregnancy is estimated at 6% of all pregnant women. The risk for IPV and even IPV-related homicide is more common than all of the other pregnancy-related conditions. Although preeclampsia poses a risk to the health of the pregnant client, it is less common than IPV. Gestational diabetes continues to be a complication of pregnancy; however, it is less common than IPV during pregnancy. Some women are at risk for an abnormal Pap screening during pregnancy, but this finding is not as common as IPV.

Which treatment regime would be most appropriate for a client who has been recently diagnosed with acute pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)? a Oral antiviral therapy b Bed rest in a semi-Fowler position c Antibiotic regimen continued until symptoms subside d Frequent pelvic examination to monitor the healing progress

ANS:B The woman with acute PID should be on bed rest in a semi-Fowler position. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are used; antiviral therapy is ineffective. Antibiotics must be taken as prescribed, even if symptoms subside. Few pelvic examinations should be conducted during the acute phase of the disease

Which clinical presentation should the nurse assess for if a pregnant client is experiencing a Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction? (Select all that apply) a Vomiting and diarrhea b Headache c Preterm labor contractions d. Bright red vaginal bleeding E. Arthralgia

ANS:B C, E Clients treated for syphilis with penicillin may experience a Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction. The reaction is an acute febrile reaction that occurs within the first 24 hours of treatment and is accompaniedby headache, myalgias, and arthralgia. If the client is pregnant, then she is at risk for preterm labor and birth. Neither vaginal bleeding, vomiting nor diarrhea are anticipated.

Which statement regarding the various forms of hepatitis is accurate? a Vaccine exists for hepatitis C virus (HCV) but not for hepatitis B (HBV). b Hepatitis A (HAV) is acquired by eating contaminated food or drinking polluted water. c Hepatitis B (HBV) is less contagious than HIV. d Incidences of hepatitis C (HCV) is decreasing.

ANS:B Contaminated milk and shellfish are common sources of infection for HAV. A vaccine exists for HBV but not for HCV. HBV is more contagious than HIV. The incidence of HCV is on the rise.

During a health history interview, a woman states that she thinks that she has "bumps" on her labia. She also states that she is not sure how to check herself. The correct response by the nurse would be what? a Reassure the woman that the examination will reveal any problems. b Explain the process of vulvar self-examination and reassure the woman that she should become familiar with normal and abnormal findings during the examination. c Reassure the woman that "bumps" can be treated. d Reassure her that most women have "bumps" on their labia.

ANS:B During the assessment and evaluation, the responsibility for self-care, health promotion, and enhancement of wellness is emphasized. The pelvic examination provides a good opportunity for the practitioner to emphasize the need for regular vulvar self-examination. Providing reassurance to the woman concerning the "bumps" would not be an accurate response.

Which trait is least likely to be displayed by a woman experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV)? a Social isolation b Assertive personality c Reoccurring depression d Dependent personality

ANS:B Every segment of society is represented among women who are suffering abuse. However, traits of assertiveness, independence, and willingness to take a stand have been documented as more characteristic of women who are in nonviolent relationships. Women whoare financially more dependent have fewer resources and support systems, exhibit symptoms of depression, and are more often seen as victims.

Which phase does not belong in Lenore Walker's three-cycle pattern of violence? a. Tension-building state b Frustration, followed by violence c Acute battering incident d Kindness and contrite, loving behavior

ANS:B Frustration, followed by violence, is not part of the cycle of violence. The tension-building state is also known as phase I of the cycle. The batterer expresses dissatisfaction and hostility with violent outbursts. The woman senses anger and anxiously tries to placate him. An acute battering incident is phase II of the cycle. It results in the man's uncontrollable discharge of tension toward the woman. Outbursts can last from several hours to several days and may involve kicking, punching, slapping, choking, burns, broken bones, and the use of weapons. Phase III of the cycle is sometimes referred to as the honeymoon, kindness and contrite,andloving behavior phase, during which the batterer feels remorseful and profusely apologizes. He tries to help the woman and often showers her with gifts.

What fatty acids (classified as hormones) are found in many body tissues with complex roles in many reproductive functions? a. GnRH b. Prostaglandins (PGs) c. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) d. Luteinizing hormone (LH)

ANS:B PGs affect smooth muscle contraction and changes in the cervix. GnRH is part of the hypothalamic-pituitary cycle, which responds to the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone. FSH is part of the hypothalamic-pituitary cycle, which responds to the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone. LH is part of the hypothalamic-pituitary cycle, which responds to the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone.

How would the physiologic process of the sexual response best be characterized? a. Coitus, masturbation, and fantasy b. Myotonia and vasocongestion c. Erection and orgasm d. Excitement, plateau, and orgasm

ANS:B Physiologically, sexual response can be analyzed in terms of two processes: vasocongestion and myotonia. Coitus, masturbation, and fantasy are forms of stimulation for the physical manifestation of the sexual response. Erection and orgasm occur in two of the four phases of the sexual response cycle. Excitement, plateau, and orgasm are three of the four phases of the sexual response cycle.

A woman who is 6 months pregnant has sought medical attention, saying she fell down the stairs. What scenario would cause an emergency department nurse to suspect that the woman has been a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV)? a The woman and her partner are having an argument that is loud and hostile. b The woman has injuries on various parts of her body that are in different stages of healing. c Examination reveals a fractured arm and fresh bruises. d She avoids making eye contact and is hesitant to answer questions.

ANS:B The client may have multiple injuries in various stages of healing that indicates a pattern of violence. An argument is not always an indication of battering. A fractured arm and fresh bruises could be caused by the reported fall and do not necessarily indicate IPV.It may be normal for the woman to be reticent and have a dull affect.

The unique muscle fibers that constitute the uterine myometrium make it ideally suited for what? a Menstruation b Birth process c Ovulation d Fertilization

ANS:B The myometrium is made up of layers of smooth muscle that extend in three directions. These muscles assist in the birth process by expelling the fetus, ligating blood vessels after birth, and controlling the opening of the cervical os. These muscle fibers have no contribution to the process of menstruation, ovulation or fertilization

A 62-year-old woman has not been to the clinic for an annual examination for 5 years. The recent death of her husband reminded her that she should come for a visit. Her family physician has retired, and she is going to see the women's health nurse practitioner for her visit. What should the nurse do to facilitate a positive health care experience for this client? a Remind the woman that she is long overdue for her examination and that she should come in annually. b Carefully listen and allow extra time for this woman's health history interview. c Reassure the woman that a nurse practitioner is just as good as herold physician. d Encourage the woman to talk about the death of her husband and her fears about her own death.

ANS:B The nurse has an opportunity to use reflection and empathy while listening, as well as ensure an open and caring communication. Scheduling a longer appointment time may be necessary because older women may have longer histories or may need to talk. A respectful and reassuring approach to caring for women older than age 50 years can help ensure that they continue to seek health care. Reminding the woman about her overdue examination, reassuring the woman that she has a good practitioner, and encouraging conversation about the death of her husband and her own death are not the best approaches.

Which statement by the client indicates that she understands breast self-examination (BSE)? a "I will examine both breasts in two different positions." b "I will examine my breasts 1 week after my menstrual period starts." c "I will examine only the outer upper area of the breast." d "I will use the palm of the hand to perform the examination."

ANS:B The woman should examine her breasts when hormonal influences are at their lowest level. The client should be instructed to use four positions: standing with arms at her sides, standing with arms raised above her head, standing with hands pressed against hips, and lying down. The entire breast needs to be examined, including the outer upper area. The client should use the sensitive pads of the middle three fingers.

A woman tells the nurse that she thinks she has a vaginal infection, and has been using an over-the-counter cream for the past 2 days to treat it. How should the nurse initially respond? a. Determine when she first noticed the symptoms. b. Reassure the woman that using vaginal cream is not a problem for the examination. c. Ask the woman to describe the symptoms that indicate to her that she has a vaginal infection. d. Ask the woman to reschedule the appointment for the examination.

ANS:C An important element of the health history and physical examination is the client's description of any symptoms she may be experiencing. The best response is for the nurse to inquire about the symptoms the woman is experiencing. While relevant, when the symptoms began is not as important as what the symptoms are. Women should not douche, use vaginal medications, or have sexual intercourse for 24 to 48 hours before obtaining a Pap test. Although the woman may need to reschedule a visit for her Pap test, her current symptoms should still be addressed.

Which questionnaire would be best for the nurse to use when screening an adolescent client for an eating disorder? a Four Cs b Dietary Guidelines for Americans c SCOFF screening tool d Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan

ANS:C A screening tool specifically developed to identify eating disorders uses the acronym SCOFF. Each question scores 1 point. A score of 2 or more indicates that the client may have anorexia nervosa or bulimia. The letters represent the following questions:• Do you make yourself Sick because you feel too full?• Do you worry about loss of Control over the amount that you eat?• Have you recently lost more than One stone (14 pounds) in a 3-month period?• Do you think that you are too Fat, even if others think you are thin?• Does Food dominate your life?The 4 Cs are used to determine cultural competence. Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide nutritional guidance for all, not only for those with eating disorders. The DEXA scan is used to determine bone density.

What is the drug of choice for the treatment of gonorrhea? a Penicillin G b Tetracycline c Ceftriaxone d Acyclovir

ANS:C Ceftriaxone is effective for the treatment of all gonococcal infections. Penicillin is used to treat syphilis. Tetracycline is prescribed for chlamydial infections. Acyclovir is used to treat herpes genitalis.

Which sexually transmitted infection (STI) is the most commonly reported in American women? a Gonorrhea b Syphilis c Chlamydia d Candidiasis

ANS:C Chlamydia is the most common STI in women in the United States and one of the most common causes of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Gonorrhea is probably the oldest communicable disease in the United States and secondto Chlamydiain reported conditions. Syphilis has reemerged as a common STI, affecting black women more than any other ethnic or racial group. Candidiasis is a relatively common fungal infection.

Nurses who provide care to victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) should be keenly aware of what? a. Relationship violence usually consists of a single episode that the couple can put behind them. b Violence often declines or ends with pregnancy. c Financial coercion is considered part of IPV. d Battered women are generally poorly educated and come from a deprived social background.

ANS:C Economic coercion may accompany physical assault and psychologic attacks. IPV almost always follows an escalating pattern. It rarely ends with a single episode of violence. IPV often begins with and escalates during pregnancy. It may include both psychologic attacks and economic coercion. Race, religion, social background, age, and education level are not significant factors in differentiating women at risk.

The nurse guides a woman to the examination room and asks her to remove her clothes and put on an examination gown with the front open. The woman replies, "I have special undergarments that I do not remove for religious reasons." Which is the most appropriate response from the nurse? a. "You can't have an examination without removing all your clothes." b. "I'll ask the physician to modify the examination." c. "I'll explain the examination procedure, and then we can discuss how you can comfortably have your examination." d. "I have no idea how we can accommodate your beliefs."

ANS:C Explaining the examination procedure reflects cultural competence by the nurseand shows respect for the woman's religious practices. The nurse must respect the rich and unique qualities that cultural diversity brings to individuals. The examination can be modified to ensure that modesty is maintained. In recognizing the value of cultural differences, the nurse can modify the plan of care to meet the needs of each woman. Telling the client that her religious practices are different or strange is inappropriate and disrespectful to the client.

Which sexual transmitted infection (STI) does not respond well to antibiotic therapy? a Chlamydia b Gonorrhea c Genital herpes d Syphilis

ANS:C Genital herpes is a chronic and recurring viral infection for which no known cure is available; therefore, it does not respond to antibiotics. Chlamydiais a bacterial infection that is treated with doxycycline or azithromycin. Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that is treated with any of several antibiotics. Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is treated with penicillin.

Which condition is the most life-threatening virus to the fetus and neonate? a. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) b Herpes simplex virus (HSV) c Hepatitis B virus (HBV) d Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

ANS:C HBV is the most life-threatening viral condition to the fetus and neonate. HAV is notthe most threatening to the fetus nor is HSV the most threatening to the neonate. Although serious, CMV is notthe most life-threatening viral condition to the fetus.

What is the primary reason why a woman who is older than 35 years may have difficulty achieving pregnancy? a. Personal riskbehaviors influence fertility. b Mature women have often used contraceptives for an extended time. c Her ovaries may be affected by the aging process. d Pre-pregnancy medical attention is lacking.

ANS:C Once the mature woman decides to conceive, a delay in becoming pregnant may occur because of the normal aging of the ovaries. Older adults participate in fewer risk behaviors than younger adults. The past use of contraceptives is not the problem. Pre-pregnancy medical care is both available and encouraged and has limited effect on initiating pregnancy.

Preconception and prenatal care have become important components of women's health. What is the guiding principal of preconception care? a. Ensure that pregnancy complications do not occur. b. Identify the woman who should not become pregnant. c. Encourage healthy lifestyles for families desiring pregnancy. d. Ensure that women know about prenatal care.

ANS:C Preconception counseling guides couples in how to avoid unintended pregnancies, how to identify and manage risk factors in their lives and in their environment, and how to identify healthy behaviors that promote the well-being of the woman and her potential fetus. Preconception caredoes not ensure that pregnancy complications will not occur. In many cases, problems can be identified and treated and may not recur in subsequent pregnancies. For many women, counseling can allow behavior modification before any damage is done, or a woman can make an informed decision about her willingness to accept potential hazards. If a woman is seeking preconception care, then she is likely aware of prenatal care.

Once the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has entered the body, what is the time frame for seroconversion to HIV positivity? a 6 to 10 days b 2 to 4 weeks c 6 to 12 weeks d 6 months

ANS:C Seroconversion to HIV positivity usually occurs within 6 to 12 weeks after the virus has entered the body. Both 6 to 10 days and 2 to 4 weeks are too short for seroconversion to HIV positivity to occur, and 6 months is too long.

In the 1970s, the rape-trauma syndrome (RTS) was identified as a cluster of symptoms and related behaviors observed in the weeks and months after an episode of rape. Researchers identified three phases related to this condition. Which phase is not displayed in a client with RTS? a Acute Phase: Disorganization b Outward Adjustment Phase c Shock/Disbelief: Disorientation Phased d Long-Term Process: Reorganization Phase

ANS:C Shock, disbelief, or disorientation is a component of the Acute Phase. The rape survivor feels embarrassed, degraded, fearful, and angry. She may feel unclean and want to bathe and douche repeatedly, even though doing so may destroy evidence. The victim relives the scene over and over in her mind, thinking of things she "should have done." During the Outward Adjustment Phase, the victim may appear to have resolved her crisis and return to activities of daily living and work. Other women may move, leave their job, and buy a weapon to protect themselves. Disorientation is a reaction during which the victim may feel disoriented, have difficulty concentrating, or have poor recall. The Long-Term Process is the reorganization phase. This recovery phase may take years and may be difficult and painful.

The microscopic examination of scrapings from the cervix, endocervix, or other mucous membranes to detect premalignant or malignant cells is called what? a Bimanual palpation b Rectovaginal palpation c Papanicolaou (Pap) test d Four As procedure

ANS:C The Pap test is a microscopic examination for cancer that should be regularly performed, depending on the client's age. Bimanual palpation is a physical examination of the vagina. Rectovaginal palpation is a physical examination performed through the rectum. The four As procedure is an intervention to help a client stop smoking

What is the primary theme of the feminist perspectiveregarding violence against women? a Role of testosterone as the underlying cause of men's violent behavior b Basic human instinctual drive toward aggression c Male dominance and coercive control over women d Cultural norm of violence in Western society

ANS:C The contemporary social view of violence is derived from the feminist theory. With the primary theme of male dominance and coercive control, this view enhances an understanding of all forms of violenceagainst women, including wife battering, stranger and acquaintance rape, incest, and sexual harassment in the workplace. The role of testosterone as an underlying cause of men's violent behavior, the basic human instinctual drive toward aggression, and the cultural norm of violence in Western society are not associated with the feminist perspective regarding violence against women

Which statement regarding female sexual response is inaccurate? a Women and men are more alike than different in their physiologic response to sexual arousal and orgasm. b Vasocongestion is the congestion of blood vessels. c Orgasmic phase is the final state of the sexual response cycle. d Facial grimaces and spasms of the hands and feet are often part of arousal

ANS:C The final state of the sexual response cycle is the resolution phase after orgasm. Men and women are surprisingly alike. Vasocongestion causes vaginal lubrication and engorgement of the genitals. Arousal is characterized by increased muscular tension (myotonia).

Which phase of the endometrial cycle best describes a heavy, velvety soft, fully matured endometrium? a. Menstrual b. Proliferative c. Secretory d. Ischemic

ANS:C The secretory phase extends from the day of ovulation to approximately 3 days before the next menstrual cycle. During this secretory phase, the endometrium becomes fully mature again. During the menstrual phase, the endometrium is shed. The proliferative phase is a period of rapid growth. During the ischemic phase, the blood supply isblocked, and necrosis develops.

Intervention for the sexual abuse survivor is often not attempted by maternity and women's health nurses because of the concern about increasing the distress of the woman and the lack of expertise in counseling. What initial intervention is appropriate and most important in facilitating the woman's care? a. Initiating a referral to an expert counselor b Setting limits on what the client dscloses c Listening and encouraging therapeutic communication skills d Acknowledging the nurse's discomfort to the client as an expression of empathy

ANS:C The survivor needs support on many different levels, and a women's health nurse may be the first person to whom she relates her story. Therapeutic communication skills and listening are initial interventions. Referring this client to a counselor is an appropriate measure but not the most important initial intervention. A client shouldbe allowed to disclose any information she feels the need to discuss. A nurse should provide a safe environment in which she can do so. Either verbal or nonverbal shock and horror reactions from the nurse are particularly devastating. Professional demeanor and professional empathy are essential

Which condition is likely to be a psychologic consequence of continued physical and psychological abuse? Select all that apply. a Substance abuse b Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) c Eating disordersd. d. Bipolar disorder e. General anxiety

ANS:D Bipolar disorder is a specific illness (also known asmanic depressive disorder) not related to abuse. Substance abuse is a common method of coping with long-term abuse. The abuser is also more likely to use alcohol and other chemical substances. PTSD is the most prevalent mental health sequela of long-term abuse. The traumatic event is persistently re-experienced through distress recollection and dreams. Eating disorders, depression, psychologic-physiologic illness, and anxiety reactions are all mental health problems associated with repeated abuse.

A 21-year-old client exhibits a greenish, copious, and malodorous discharge with vulvar irritation. A speculum examination and wet smear are performed to help confirm the diagnosis. Which condition is thisclient most likely experiencing? a Bacterial vaginosis b Candidiasis c Yeast infection d Trichomoniasis

ANS:D Although uncomfortable, a speculum examination is always performed, and a wet smear obtained if the client exhibits symptoms of trichomoniasis. The presence of many white blood cell protozoa is a positive finding for trichomoniasis. A normal saline test isused to test for bacterial vaginosis. A potassium hydroxide preparation is used to test for candidiasis. Yeast infectionis the common name for candidiasis, for which the test is a potassium hydroxide preparation

Nurses are often the first health care professional with whom a woman comes into contact after being sexually assaulted. Which statement best describes the initial care of a rape victim? a All legal evidence is preserved during the physical examination. b The victim appreciates the legal information; however, decides not to pursue legal proceedings. c The victim states that she is going to advocate against sexual violence. d The victim leaves the health care facility without feeling re-victimized.

ANS:D Nurses can assist clients through an examination that is as nontraumatic as possible with kindness, skill, and empathy. The initial care of the victim affects her recovery and decision to receive follow-up care. Preservation of all legal evidence is very important; however, this may not be the best measure in terms of evaluating the care of a rape victim. Offering legal information is not the best measure of evaluating the care that this victim received. The victim may well decide not to pursue legal proceedings. Advocating against sexual violence may be extremely therapeutic for the client after herinitial recovery but not a measure of evaluating her care.

is part of the normal vaginal flora in 20% to 30% of healthy pregnant women. GBS has been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes and is an important factor in neonatal morbidity and mortality. Which finding is nota risk factor for neonatal Group B Streptococcus(GBS) infection? a Positive prenatal Group B Streptococcus culture b Preterm birth at 37 weeks or less of gestation c Intrapartum maternal temperature of 38C (100.4°F) or higher d Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) lasting 12 hours

ANS:D PROM 18 hours or longer before the birth increases the risk for neonatal GBS infection. Positive prenatal culture is a risk factor for neonatal GBS infection. Preterm birth at 37 weeks or less of gestation remains a risk factor for neonatal GBS infection. Maternal temperature of 38C or higher is also a risk factor for neonatalGBS infection.

Which manifestation differentiates primary syphilis from secondary syphilis? a Fever, headache, and malaise b Widespread rash c Identified by serologic testing d Appearance of a chancre 2 months after infection

ANS:D Primary syphilis is characterized by a primary lesion (the chancre), which appears 5 to 90 days after infection. The chancre begins as a painless papule at the site of inoculation and erodes to form a nontender, shallow, and clean ulcer several millimeters to centimeters in size.Secondary syphilis occurs 6 weeks to 6 months after the appearance of the chancre and is characterized by a widespread maculopapular rash. The individual may also experience fever, headache, and malaise.Latent syphilis are those infections that lack clinical manifestations; however, they are detected by serologic testing

Which hormone is responsible for the maturation of mammary gland tissue? a Estrogen b Testosterone c Prolactin d Progesterone

ANS:D Progesterone causes maturation of the mammary gland tissue, specifically acinar structures of the lobules. Estrogen increases the vascularity of the breast tissue. Testosterone has no bearing on breast development. Prolactin is produced after birth and released from the pituitary gland; it is produced in response to infant suckling and an emptying of the breasts.

A blind woman has arrived for an examination. She appears nervous and says, "I've never had a pelvic examination." What response from the nurse would be most appropriate? a. "Being visually impaired must be very anxiety producing." b. "Try to relax. I'll be very gentle, and I promise not to hurt you." c. "Your anxiety is common. I was anxious when I first had a pelvic examination." d. "I'll let you touch each instrument I'll be using as I tell you how it will be used."

ANS:D The client who is visually impaired needs to be oriented to the examination room and needs a full explanation of what the examination entails before the nurse proceeds. The statement regarding her visual disability and anxiety does not address her concerns. The nurse should openly and directly communicate with sensitivity. Women who have physical disabilities should be respected and involved in the assessment and physical examination to the full extent of their abilities. Telling the client that she will not be hurt does not reflect respect or sensitivity. Although anxiety may be common, the nurse should not discuss her own issues nor compare them to the client's concerns.

Which part of the menstrual cycle includes the stimulated release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)? a. Menstrual phase b. Endometrial cycle c. Ovarian cycle d. Hypothalamic-pituitary cycle

ANS:D The cyclic release of hormones is the function of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. The menstrual cycle is a complex interplay of events that simultaneously occur in the endometrium, hypothalamus, pituitary glands, and ovaries. The endometrial cycle consists of four phases: menstrual phase, proliferative phase, secretory phase, and ischemic phase. The ovarian cycle remains under the influence of FSH and estrogen.

What is the goal of a long-term treatment plan for an adolescent with an eating disorder? a Managing the effects of malnutrition b Establishing sufficient caloric intake c Improving family dynamics d Restructuring client perception of body image

ANS:D The treatment of eating disorders is initially focused on reestablishing physiologic homeostasis. Once body systems are stabilized, the next goal of treatment for eating disorders is maintaining adequate caloric intake. Although family therapy is indicated when dysfunctional family relationships exist, the primary focus of therapy foreating disorders is to help the adolescent cope with complex issues. The focus of treatment in individual therapy for an eating disorder involves restructuring cognitive perceptions about the individual's body image

Which sexually transmitted infection (STI) can be successfully treated? a Herpes simplex virus b Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) c Venereal warts d Chlamydia

ANS:D The usual treatment for Chlamydiabacterial infection is doxycycline or azithromycin. Concurrent treatment of all sexual partners is needed to prevent recurrence. No known cure is available for HSV; therefore, the treatment focuses on pain relief and preventing secondary infections.Because no cure is known for AIDS, prevention and early detection are the primary focus of care management. HPV causes condylomata acuminata (venereal warts); no available treatment eradicates the virus