Week 4 OB Content Chapters 6,7,8
13. 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 drives her car slowly. 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 eating properly, driving carefully, 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
34. A woman is 6 weeks pregnant. She has had a previous spontaneous abortion at 14 weeks of gestation and a Test Bank - Maternal Child Nursing Care by Perry (6th Edition, 2017) 112 pregnancy that ended at 38 weeks with the birth of a stillborn girl. What is her gravidity and parity using the GTPAL system? ___________________
ANS: 3-1-0-1-0 The correct calculation of this womans gravidity and parity is 3-1-0-1-0. Using the GPTAL system, this clients gravidity and parity information is calculated as follows: G: Total number of times the woman has been pregnant (she is pregnant for the third time) T: Number of pregnancies carried to term (she has had only one pregnancy that resulted in a fetus at term) P: Number of pregnancies that resulted in a preterm birth (none) A: Abortions or miscarriages before the period of viability (she has had one) L: Number of children born who are currently living (she has no living children)
14. A woman who has completed one pregnancy with a fetus (or fetuses) reaching the stage of fetal viability is called a: a. Primipara. b. Primigravida. c. Multipara. d. Nulligravida
ANS: A A primipara is a woman who has completed one pregnancy with a viable fetus. To remember terms, keep in mind: gravida is a pregnant woman; para comes from parity, meaning a viable fetus; primi means first; multi means many; and null means none. A primigravida is a woman pregnant for the first time. A multipara is a woman who has completed two or more pregnancies with a viable fetus. A nulligravida is a woman who has never been pregnant.
13. Appendicitis may be difficult to diagnose in pregnancy because the appendix is: a. Displaced upward and laterally, high and to the right. b. Displaced upward and laterally, high and to the left. c. Deep at McBurney point. d. Displaced downward and laterally, low and to the right.
ANS: A The appendix is displaced high and to the right, beyond McBurney poin
25. While teaching the expectant mother about personal hygiene during pregnancy, maternity nurses should be aware that: 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 main 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. Warm water is sufficient.
21. As relates to the fathers acceptance of the pregnancy and preparation for childbirth, the maternity nurse should know that: a. The father goes through three phases of acceptance of his own. b. The fathers attachment to the fetus cannot be as strong as that of the mother because it does not start until after 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. In the last 2 months of pregnancy, many expectant fathers work hard to improve the environment of the home for the child. Typically the expectant fathers ambivalence ends by the first trimester, and he progresses to adjusting to the reality of the situation and then to focusing on his role
17. Which statement about pregnancy is accurate? a. A normal pregnancy lasts about 10 lunar months. b. A trimester is one third of a year. c. The prenatal period extends from fertilization to conception. d. The estimated date of confinement (EDC) is how long the mother will have to be bedridden after birth.
ANS: A A lunar month lasts 28 days, or 4 weeks. Pregnancy spans 9 calendar months but 10 lunar months. A trimester is one third of a normal pregnancy, or about 13 to 14 weeks. The prenatal period covers the full course of pregnancy (prenatal means before birth). The EDC is now called the EDB, or estimated date of birth. It has nothing to do with the duration of bed rest.
2. A woman at 10 weeks of gestation who is seen in the prenatal clinic with presumptive signs and symptoms of pregnancy likely will have: a. Amenorrhea. b. Positive pregnancy test. c. Chadwicks sign d. Hegars sign.
ANS: A Amenorrhea is a presumptive sign of pregnancy. Presumptive signs of pregnancy are felt by the woman. A positive pregnancy test, the presence of Chadwicks sign, and the presence of Hegars sign all are probable signs of pregnancy
24. A maternity nurse should be aware of which fact about the amniotic fluid? a. It serves as a source of oral fluid and a repository for waste from the fetus. b. The volume remains about the same throughout the term of a healthy pregnancy. c. A volume of less than 300 mL is associated with gastrointestinal malformations. d. A volume of more than 2 L 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 changes constantly. Too little amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) is associated with renal abnormalities. Too much amniotic fluid (hydramnios) is associated with gastrointestinal and other abnormalities.
A key finding from the Human Genome Project is: a. Approximately 20,000 genes make up the genome. b. All human beings are 80.99% identical at the DNA level. c. Human genes produce only one protein per gene; other mammals produce three proteins per gene. d. Single gene testing will become a standardized test for all pregnant clients in the future.
ANS: A Approximately 20,500 genes make up the human genome; this is only twice as many as make up the genomes of roundworms and flies. Human beings are 99.9% identical at the DNA level. Most human genes produce at least three proteins. Single gene testing (e.g., alpha-fetoprotein) is already standardized for prenatal care.
17. The nurse caring for the laboring woman should know that meconium is produced by: a. Fetal intestines. b. Fetal kidneys. c. Amniotic fluid d. The placenta.
ANS: A As the fetus nears term, fetal waste products accumulate in the intestines as dark green-to-black, tarry meconium.
29. With regard to medications, herbs, shots, and other substances normally encountered by pregnant women, the maternity nurse should be aware that: 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 seen in the final trimester. c. Killed-virus vaccines (e.g., tetanus) should not be given 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, when 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
5. The multiple marker test is used to assess the fetus for which condition? a. Down syndrome b. Diaphragmatic hernia c. Congenital cardiac abnormality d. Anencephaly
ANS: A The maternal serum level of alpha-fetoprotein is used to screen for Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and other chromosome anomalies. The multiple marker test would not detect diaphragmatic hernia, congenital cardiac abnormality, or anencephaly. Additional testing, such as ultrasonography and amniocentesis, would be required to diagnose these conditions.
19. The mucous plug that forms in the endocervical canal is called the: 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.
10. A woman is in her seventh month of pregnancy. She has been complaining of nasal congestion and occasional epistaxis. The nurse suspects that: a. This is a normal respiratory change in pregnancy caused by elevated levels of estrogen. b. This is an abnormal cardiovascular change, 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 using cocaine intranasally.
ANS: A Elevated levels of estrogen cause capillaries to become engorged in the respiratory tract. This may result in edema in the nose, larynx, trachea, and bronchi. This congestion may cause nasal stuffiness and epistaxis. Cardiovascular changes in pregnancy may cause edema in lower extremities. Determining that the woman is a victim of domestic violence and was hit in the face cannot be made on the basis of the sparse facts provided. If the woman had been hit in the face, she most likely would have additional physical findings. Determination of the use of cocaine by the woman cannot be made on the basis of the sparse facts provided.
33. The placenta allows exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and fetus by: a. Contact between maternal blood and fetal capillaries within the chorionic villi. b. Interaction of maternal and fetal pH levels within the endometrial vessels. c. A mixture of maternal and fetal blood within the intervillous spaces. d. Passive diffusion of maternal carbon dioxide and oxygen into the fetal capillaries.
ANS: A Fetal capillaries within the chorionic villi are bathed with oxygen-rich and nutrient-rich maternal blood within the intervillous spaces. The endometrial vessels are part of the uterus. There is no interaction with the fetal blood at this point. Maternal and fetal blood do not normally mix. Maternal carbon dioxide does not enter into the fetal circulation.
27. Many parents-to-be have questions about multiple births. Maternity nurses should be able to tell them that: a. Twinning and other multiple births are increasing because of the use of fertility drugs and delayed childbearing. b. Dizygotic twins (two fertilized ova) have the potential to be conjoined twins. c. Identical twins are more common in white families. d. Fraternal twins are same gender, usually male.
ANS: A If the parents-to-be are older and have taken fertility drugs, they would be very interested to know about twinning and other multiple births. Conjoined twins are monozygotic; they are from a single fertilized ovum in which division occurred very late. Identical twins show no racial or ethnic preference; fraternal twins are more common among African-American women. Fraternal twins can be different genders or the same gender. Identical twins are the same gender.
The nurse is assessing the knowledge of new parents with a child born with maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). This is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder, which means that: a. Both genes of a pair must be abnormal for the disorder to be expressed. b. Only one copy of the abnormal gene is required for the disorder to be expressed. c. The disorder occurs in males and heterozygous females. d. The disorder is carried on the X chromosome.
ANS: A MSUD is a type of autosomal recessive inheritance disorder in which both genes of a pair must be abnormal for the disorder to be expressed. MSUD is not an X-linked dominant or recessive disorder or an autosomal dominant inheritance disorder.
10. With regard to prenatal genetic testing, nurses should be aware that: a. Maternal serum screening can determine whether a pregnant woman is at risk of carrying a fetus with Down syndrome. b. Carrier screening tests look for gene mutations of people already showing symptoms of a disease. c. Predisposition testing predicts with near certainty that symptoms will appear. d. Presymptomatic testing is used to predict the likelihood of breast cancer.
ANS: A Maternal serum screening identifies the risk for the neural tube defect and the specific chromosome abnormality involved in Down syndrome. Carriers of some diseases, such as sickle cell disease, do not display symptoms. Predisposition testing determines susceptibility, such as for breast cancer. presymptomatic testing indicates that symptoms are certain to appear if the gene is present.
28. The nurse caring for a pregnant client knows that her health teaching regarding fetal circulation has been effective when the client reports that she has been sleeping: a. In a side-lying position. b. On her back with a pillow under her knees. c. With the head of the bed elevated. d. On her 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, 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 compression of the vena cava. Many women find lying on her abdomen uncomfortable as pregnancy advances. Side-lying is the ideal position to promote blood flow to the fetus.
31. A new mother asks the nurse about the white substance covering her infant. The nurse explains that the purpose of vernix caseosa is to: a. Protect the fetal skin from amniotic fluid. b. Promote normal peripheral nervous system development. c. Allow transport of oxygen and nutrients across the amnion. d. Regulate fetal temperature.
ANS: A Prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid during the fetal period could result in breakdown of the skin without the protection of the vernix caseosa. Normal development of the peripheral nervous system is dependent on nutritional intake of the mother. The amnion is the inner membrane that surrounds the fetus. It is not involved in the oxygen and nutrient exchange. The amniotic fluid aids in maintaining fetal temperature.
2. Prenatal testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is recommended for: a. All women, regardless of risk factors. b. A woman who has had more than one sexual partner. c. A woman who has had a sexually transmitted infection. d. A woman who is monogamous with her partner.
ANS: A Testing for the antibody to HIV is strongly recommended for all pregnant women. A HIV test is recommended for all women, regardless of risk factors. Women who test positive for HIV can be treated, reducing the risk of transmission to the fetus.
12. The nurse must be cognizant that an individuals genetic makeup is known as his or her: a. Genotype. b. Phenotype. c. Karyotype. d. Chromotype.
ANS: A The genotype comprises all the genes the individual can pass on to a future generation. The phenotype is the observable expression of an individuals genotype. The karyotype is a pictorial analysis of the number, form, and size of an individuals chromosomes. Genotype refers to an individuals genetic makeup.
26. A first-time mother at 18 weeks of gestation comes 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 this is the Braxton Hicks sign and teaches the client that this type of contraction: a. Is painless. b. Increases with walking. c. Causes cervical dilation d. Impedes oxygen flow to the fetus.
ANS: A Uterine contractions can be felt through the abdominal wall soon after the fourth month of gestation. Braxton Hicks contractions are regular and painless and continue throughout the pregnancy. Although they are not painful, some women complain that they are annoying. Braxton Hicks contractions usually cease with walking or exercise. They can be mistaken for true labor; however, they do not increase in intensity or frequency or cause cervical dilation. In addition, they facilitate uterine blood flow through the intervillous spaces of the placenta and promote oxygen delivery to the fetus.
18. A woman asks the nurse, What protects my babys umbilical cord from being squashed while the babys inside of me? The nurses best response is: a. Your baby's umbilical cord is surrounded by connective tissue called Wharton jelly, which prevents compression of the blood vessels and ensures continued nourishment of your baby. b. Your babys umbilical floats around in blood anyway. c. You dont need to worry about things like that. d. The umbilical cord is a group of blood vessels that are very well protected by the placenta.
ANS: A Your babys umbilical cord is surrounded by connective tissue called Wharton jelly, which prevents compression of the blood vessels and ensures continued nourishment of your baby is the most appropriate response. Your babys umbilical floats around in blood anyway is inaccurate. You dont need to worry about things like that is an inappropriate response. It negates the clients need for teaching and discounts her feelings. The placenta does not protect the umbilical cord. The cord is protected by the surrounding Wharton jelly.
5. During a clients physical examination the nurse notes that the lower uterine segment is soft on palpation. The nurse would document this finding as: a. Hegars sign b. McDonalds sign c. Chadwicks sign d. Goodells sign
ANS: A At approximately 6 weeks of gestation, softening and compressibility of the lower uterine segment occur; this is called Hegars sign. McDonalds sign indicates a fast food restaurant. Chadwicks sign is the blue-violet coloring of the cervix caused by increased vascularity; this occurs around the fourth week of gestation. Softening of the cervical tip is called Goodells sign, which may be observed around the sixth week of pregnancy.
32. A woman is in for a routine prenatal checkup. You are assessing her urine for proteinuria. Which findings are considered normal (Select all that apply)? a. Dipstick assessment of trace to +1 b. <300 mg/24 hours c. Dipstick assessment of +2 d. >300 mg/24 hours
ANS: A, B Small amounts of protein in the urine are acceptable during pregnancy. The presence of protein in greater amounts may indicate renal problems. A dipstick assessment of +2 and >300 mg/24 hours are excessive amounts of protein in the urine and should be evaluated further.
34. Signs and symptoms that a woman should report immediately to her health care provider include (Select all that apply): a. Vaginal bleeding. b. Rupture of membranes. c. Heartburn accompanied by severe headache. d. Decreased libido. e. Urinary frequency.
ANS: A, B, C Vaginal bleeding, rupture of membranes, and severe headaches all are signs of potential complications in pregnancy. Clients should be advised to report these signs to the health care provider. Decreased libido and urinary frequency are common discomforts of pregnancy that do not require immediate health care interventions.
34. Congenital disorders refer to conditions that are present at birth. These disorders may be inherited and caused by environmental factors or maternal malnutrition. Toxic exposures have the greatest effect on development between 15 and 60 days of gestation. For the nurse to be able to conduct a complete assessment of the newly pregnant client, she should understand the significance of exposure to known human teratogens. These include(Select all that apply): a. Infections. b. Radiation. c. Maternal conditions. d. Drugs. e. Chemicals.
ANS: A, B, C, D, E Exposure to radiation and numerous infections may result in profound congenital deformities. These include but are not limited to varicella, rubella, syphilis, parvovirus, cytomegalovirus, and toxoplasmosis. Certain maternal conditions such as diabetes and phenylketonuria may also affect organs and other parts of the embryo during this developmental period. Drugs such as antiseizure medication and some antibiotics as well as chemicals, including lead, mercury, tobacco, and alcohol, also may result in structural and functional abnormalities.
35. Which congenital malformations result from multifactorial inheritance (Select all that apply)? a. Cleft lip b. Congenital heart disease c. Cri du chat syndrome d. Anencephaly e. Pyloric stenosis
ANS: A, B, D, E All these congenital malformations are associated with multifactorial inheritance. Cri du chat syndrome is related to a chromosome deletion.
35. A woman has just moved to the United States from Mexico. She is 3 months pregnant and has arrived for her first prenatal visit. During her assessment interview, you discover that she has not had any immunizations. Which immunizations should she receive at this point in her pregnancy (Select all that apply)? a. Tetanus b. Diphtheria c. Chickenpox d. Rubella e. Hepatitis B
ANS: A, B, E immunization with live or attenuated live viruses is contraindicated during pregnancy because of potential teratogenicity. Vaccines consisting of killed viruses may be used. Immunizations that may be administered during pregnancy include tetanus, diphtheria, recombinant hepatitis B, and rabies vaccines. Live-virus vaccines include those for measles (rubeola and rubella), chickenpox, and mumps
31. The diagnosis of pregnancy is based on which positive signs of pregnancy (Select all that apply)? a. Identification of fetal heartbeat b. Palpation of fetal outline c. Visualization of the fetus d. Verification of fetal movement e. Positive hCG test
ANS: A, C, D Identification of fetal heartbeat, visualization of the fetus, and verification of fetal movement all are positive, objective signs of pregnancy. Palpation of fetal outline and a positive hCG test are probable signs of pregnancy. A tumor also can be palpated. Medication and tumors may lead to false-positive results on pregnancy tests.
36. Along with gas exchange and nutrient transfer, the placenta produces many hormones necessary for normal pregnancy. These include (select all that apply) a. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) b. Insulin c. Estrogen d. Progesterone e. Testosterone
ANS: A, C, D hCG causes the corpus luteum to persist and produce the necessary estrogens and progesterone for the first 6 to 8 weeks. Estrogens cause enlargement of the womans uterus and breasts; cause growth of the ductal system in the breasts; and, as term approaches, play a role in the initiation of labor. Progesterone causes the endometrium to change, providing early nourishment. Progesterone also protects against spontaneous abortion by suppressing maternal reactions to fetal antigens and reduces unnecessary uterine contractions. Other hormones produced by the placenta include hCT, hCA, and numerous growth factors. Human placental lactogen promotes normal nutrition and growth of the fetus and maternal breast development for lactation. This hormone decreases maternal insulin sensitivity and utilization of glucose, making more glucose available for fetal growth. If a Y chromosome is present in the male fetus, hCG causes the fetal testes to secrete testosterone necessary for the normal development of male reproductive structures.
24. To reassure and educate pregnant clients about the functioning of their kidneys in eliminating waste products, maternity nurses should be aware that: a. Increased urinary output makes pregnant women less susceptible to urinary infection. b. Increased bladder sensitivity and then compression of the bladder by the enlarging uterus results in the urge to urinate even if the bladder is almost empty. c. Renal (kidney) function is more efficient when the woman assumes a supine position. d. Using diuretics during pregnancy can help keep kidney function regular.
ANS: B First bladder sensitivity and then compression of the bladder by the uterus result in the urge to urinate more often. Numerous anatomic changes make a pregnant woman more susceptible to urinary tract infection. Renal function is more efficient when the woman lies in the lateral recumbent position and less efficient when she is supine. Diuretic use during pregnancy can overstress the system and cause problems.
18. In understanding and guiding a woman through her acceptance of pregnancy, a maternity nurse should be aware that: a. Nonacceptance of the pregnancy very often equates to rejection of the child. b. Mood swings most likely are the result of worries about finances and a changed lifestyle as well as profound hormonal changes. c. Ambivalent feelings during pregnancy usually are seen only in emotionally immature or very young mothers. d. Conflicts such as not wanting to be pregnant or childrearing and career-related decisions need not be addressed during pregnancy because they will resolve themselves naturally after birth.
ANS: B Mood swings are natural and are likely to affect every woman to some degree. A woman may dislike being pregnant, refuse to accept it, and still love and accept the child. Ambivalent feelings about pregnancy are normal for mature or immature women, younger or older women. Conflicts such as not wanting to be pregnant or childrearing and career-related decisions need to be resolved. The baby ends the pregnancy but not all the issues.
16. 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 A concern for modesty is a deterrent to many women seeking prenatal care. For some women, exposing body parts, especially to a man, is considered a major violation of their modesty. Many cultural variations are found in prenatal care. Even if the prenatal care described is familiar to a woman, some practices may conflict with the beliefs and practices of a subculture group to which she belongs.
32. 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? The best answer is: a. A babys sex is determined as soon as conception occurs. b. The baby has developed enough that we can determine the sex by examining the genitals through ultrasound. c. Boys and girls look alike until about 20 weeks after conception, and then they begin to look different. d. It might be possible to determine your babys 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.
6. A woman who is 32 weeks pregnant is informed by the nurse that a danger sign of pregnancy could be: 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
23. With regard to the initial physical examination of a woman beginning prenatal care, maternity nurses should be cognizant of: a. Only women who show physical signs or meet the sociologic profile should be assessed for physical abuse. b. The woman should empty her bladder before the pelvic examination is performed. 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.
ANS: B An empty bladder facilitates the examination; this is also an opportunity to get a urine sample easily 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.
8. The musculoskeletal system adapts to the changes that occur during pregnancy. A woman can expect to experience what change? 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 An increase in the normal lumbosacral curve (lordosis) develops, and a compensatory curvature in the cervicodorsal region develops to help the woman maintain her balance. The center of gravity shifts forward. She will have decreased muscle tone. She will notice increased mobility of her pelvic joints.
13. With regard to chromosome abnormalities, nurses should be aware that: a. They occur in approximately 10% of newborns. b. Abnormalities of number are the leading cause of pregnancy loss. c. Down syndrome is a result of an abnormal chromosome structure. d. Unbalanced translocation results in a mild abnormality that the child will outgrow.
ANS: B Aneuploidy is an abnormality of number that also is the leading genetic cause of mental retardation. Chromosome abnormalities occur in less than 1% of newborns. Down syndrome is the most common form of trisomal abnormality, an abnormality of chromosome number (47 chromosomes). Unbalanced translocation is an abnormality of chromosome structure that often has serious clinical effects.
9. A 31-year-old woman believes that she may be pregnant. She took an OTC pregnancy test 1 week ago after missing her period; the test was positive. During her assessment interview, the nurse inquires about the womans last menstrual period and asks whether she is taking any medications. The woman states that she takes medicine for epilepsy. She has been under considerable stress lately at work and has not been sleeping well. She also has a history of irregular periods. Her physical examination does not indicate that she is pregnant. She has an ultrasound scan, which reveals that she is not pregnant. What is the most likely cause of the false- positive pregnancy test result? a. She took the pregnancy test too early. b. She takes anticonvulsants. c. She 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 technology, which can yield positive results 4 days after implantation. Implantation occurs 6 to 10 days after conception. If the woman were pregnant, 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 hCG pregnancy tests. Although stress may interrupt normal hormone cycles (menstrual cycles), it does not affect human chorionic gonadotropin levels or produce positive pregnancy test results
21. To reassure and educate pregnant clients about changes in their cardiovascular system, maternity nurses should be aware that: a. A pregnant woman experiencing disturbed cardiac rhythm, such as sinus arrhythmia requires close medical and obstetric observation, no matter how healthy she otherwise may appear. b. Changes in heart size and position and increases in blood volume create auditory changes from 20 weeks to term. c. Palpitations are twice as likely to occur in twin gestations. d. All of the above changes likely will occur.
ANS: B 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 occur. Auditory changes are discernible at 20 weeks.
6. Cardiovascular system changes occur during pregnancy. Which finding would be considered normal for a woman in her second trimester? a. Less audible heart sounds (S1 , S2 ) b. Increased pulse rate c. Increased blood pressure d. Decreased red blood cell (RBC) production
ANS: B Between 14 and 20 weeks of gestation, the pulse increases about 10 to 15 beats/min, which persists to term. Splitting of S1 and S2 is more audible. In the first trimester, blood pressure usually remains the same as at the prepregnancy level, but it gradually decreases up to about 20 weeks of gestation. During the second trimester, both the systolic and the diastolic pressures decrease by about 5 to 10 mm Hg. Production of RBCs accelerates during pregnancy.
15. Which time-based description of a stage of development in pregnancy is accurate? a. Viability22 to 37 weeks since the last menstrual period (LMP) (assuming a fetal weight >500 g) b. Termpregnancy from the beginning of week 38 of gestation to the end of week 42 c. Pretermpregnancy from 20 to 28 weeks d. Postdatepregnancy that extends beyond 38 weeks
ANS: B Term is 38 to 42 weeks of gestation. Viability is the ability of the fetus to live outside the uterus before coming to term, or 22 to 24 weeks since LMP. Preterm is 20 to 37 weeks of gestation. Postdate or postterm is a pregnancy that extends beyond 42 weeks or what is considered the limit of full term.
14. A 3-year-old girls mother is 6 months pregnant. What concern is this child likely to verbalize? a. How the baby will get out b. What the baby will eat c. Whether her mother will die d. What color eyes the baby has
ANS: B By age 3 or 4, children like to be told the story of their own beginning and accept its comparison with the present pregnancy. They like to listen to the fetal heartbeat and feel the baby move. Sometimes they worry about how the baby is being fed and what it wears. School-age children take a more clinical interest in their mothers pregnancy and may want to know, How did the baby get in there? and How will it get out? Whether her mother will die does not tend to be the focus of a childs questions about the impending birth of a sibling. The babys eye color does not tend to be the focus of childrens questions about the impending birth of a sibling
In presenting to obstetric nurses interested in genetics, the genetic nurse identifies the primary risk(s) associated with genetic testing as: a. Anxiety and altered family relationships. b. Denial of insurance benefits. c. High false-positive results associated with genetic testing. d. Ethnic and socioeconomic disparity associated with genetic testing.
ANS: B Decisions about genetic testing are shaped by socioeconomic status and the ability to pay for the testing. Some types of genetic testing are expensive and are not covered by insurance benefits. Anxiety and altered family relationships, high false-positive results, and ethnic and socioeconomic disparity are factors that may be difficulties associated with genetic testing, but they are not risks associated with testing
4. A woman is at 14 weeks of gestation. The nurse would expect to palpate the fundus at which level? a. Not palpable above the symphysis at this time 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 twelfth and fourteenth weeks of pregnancy. As the uterus grows, it may be palpated above the symphysis pubis sometime between the twelfth and fourteenth weeks of pregnancy. The uterus rises gradually to the level of the umbilicus at 22 to 24 weeks of gestation.
30. A woman is 15 weeks pregnant with her first baby. She asks how long it will be before she feels the baby move. The best answer is a. You should have felt the baby move by now. b. Within the next month, you should start to feel fluttering sensations. c. The baby is moving; however, you cant feel it yet. d. Some babies are quiet, and you dont feel them move.
ANS: B Maternal perception of fetal movement usually begins 16 to 20 weeks after conception. Because this is her first pregnancy, movement is felt toward the later part of the 16- to 20-week time period. Stating that you should have felt the baby move by now is incorrect and may be alarming to the patient. Fetal movement should be felt by 16 to 20 weeks. If movement is not felt by the end of that time, further assessment will be necessary.
12. During the first trimester, a woman can expect which of the following changes in her sexual desire? a. An increase, because of enlarging breasts b. A decrease, because of nausea and fatigue c. No change d. An increase, because of increased levels of female hormones
ANS: B 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; this tends to interfere with coitus, decreasing the desire to engage in sexual activity.
30. A patient in her first trimester complains of nausea and vomiting. She asks, Why does this happen? The nurses best response is: a. It is due to an increase in gastric motility. b. It may be due to changes in hormones. c. It is related to an increase in glucose levels. d. It is caused by a decrease in gastric secretions.
ANS: B Nausea and vomiting are believed to be caused by increased levels of hormones, decreased gastric motility, and hypoglycemia. Gastric motility decreases during pregnancy. Glucose levels decrease in the first trimester. Although gastric secretions decrease, this is not the main cause of nausea and vomiting.
8. 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. The nurse would recommend that she: a. Do Kegel exercises. b. Do pelvic rock exercises. c. Use a softer mattress d. Stay in bed for 24 hours.
ANS: B Pelvic rock exercises may help stretch and strengthen the abdominal and lower back muscles and relieve low back pain. 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. Stretching and other exercises to relieve back pain should be performed several times a day.
3. The nurse teaches a pregnant woman about the presumptive, probable, and positive signs of pregnancy. The woman demonstrates understanding of the nurses instructions if she states that a positive sign of pregnancy is: a. A positive pregnancy test. b. Fetal movement palpated by the nurse-midwife. c. Braxton Hicks contractions. d. Quickening.
ANS: B Positive signs of pregnancy are attributed to the presence of a fetus, such as hearing the fetal heartbeat or palpating fetal movement. A positive pregnancy test and Braxton Hicks contractions are probable signs of pregnancy. Quickening is a presumptive sign of pregnancy.
CHAPTER 8 1. The nurse caring for a newly pregnant woman would advise her that ideally prenatal care should 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 ideally should begin soon after the first missed menstrual period. Regular prenatal visits offer opportunities to ensure the health of the expectant mother and her infant.
27. Which finding in the urine analysis 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 Small amounts of glucose may indicate physiologic spilling. The presence of protein could indicate kidney disease or preeclampsia. Urinary tract infections are associated with bacteria in the urine. An increase in ketones indicates that the patient is exercising too strenuously or has an inadequate fluid and food intake.
CHAPTER 7 1. A womans obstetric history indicates that she is pregnant for the fourth time and all of her children from previous pregnancies are living. One was born at 39 weeks of gestation, twins were born at 34 weeks of gestation, and another child was born at 35 weeks of gestation. What is her gravidity and parity using the GTPAL system? a. 3-1-1-1-3 b. 4-1-2-0-4 c. 3-0-3-0-3 d. 4-2-1-0-3
ANS: B The correct calculation of this womans gravidity and parity is 4-1-2-0-4. The numbers reflect the womans gravidity and parity information. Using the GPTAL system, her information is calculated as: G: The first number reflects the total number of times the woman has been pregnant; she is pregnant for the fourth time. T: This number indicates the number of pregnancies carried to term, not the number of deliveries at term; only one of her pregnancies has resulted in a fetus at term. P: This is the number of pregnancies that resulted in a preterm birth; the woman has had two pregnancies in which she delivered preterm. A: This number signifies whether the woman has had any abortions or miscarriages before the period of viability; she has not. L: This number signifies the number of children born that currently are living; the woman has four children
5. A man's wife is pregnant for the third time. One child was born with cystic fibrosis, and the other child is healthy. The man wonders what the chance is that this child will have cystic fibrosis. This type of testing is known as: a. Occurrence risk. b. Recurrence risk. c. Predictive testing d. Predisposition testing.
ANS: B The couple already has a child with a genetic disease so they will be given a recurrence risk test. If a couple has not yet had children but are known to be at risk for having children with a genetic disease, they are given an occurrence risk test. Predictive testing is used to clarify the genetic status of an asymptomatic family member. Predisposition testing differs from presymptomatic testing in that a positive result does not indicate 100% risk of a condition developing.
26. The nurse should have knowledge of the purpose of the pinch test. It is used to: a. Check the sensitivity of the nipples. b. Determine whether the nipple is everted or inverted. c. Calculate the adipose buildup in the abdomen. d. See whether the fetus has become inactive.
ANS: B The pinch test is used to determine whether the nipple is everted or inverted. Nipples must be everted to allow breastfeeding.
25. As relates to the structure and function of the placenta, the maternity nurse should be aware that: a. As the placenta widens, it gradually thins to allow easier passage of air and nutrients. b. As one of its early functions, the placenta acts as an endocrine gland. c. The placenta is able to keep out most potentially toxic substances such as cigarette smoke to which the mother is exposed. d. Optimal blood circulation is achieved through the placenta when the woman is lying on her back or standing.
ANS: B The placenta produces four hormones necessary to maintain the pregnancy. The placenta widens until week 20 and continues to grow thicker. Toxic substances such as nicotine and carbon monoxide readily cross the placenta into the fetus. Optimal circulation occurs when the woman is lying on her side.
28. The maternity nurse understands that vascular volume increases 40% to 60% during pregnancy to: a. Compensate for decreased renal plasma flow. b. Provide adequate perfusion of the placenta. c. Eliminate metabolic wastes of the mother. d. 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.
17. To reassure and educate pregnant clients about changes in the uterus, nurses should be aware that: a. Lightening occurs near the end of the second trimester as the uterus rises into a different position. b. The womans increased urinary frequency in the first trimester is the result of exaggerated uterine antireflexion caused by softening. c. Braxton Hicks contractions become more painful in the third trimester, particularly if the woman tries to exercise. d. The uterine souffle is the movement of the fetus.
ANS: B The softening of the lower uterine segment is called Hegars sign. 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
You are a maternal-newborn nurse caring for a mother who just delivered a baby born with Down syndrome. What nursing diagnosis would be the most essential in caring for the mother of this infant? a. Disturbed body image b. Interrupted family processes c. Anxiety d. Risk for injury
ANS: B This mother likely will experience a disruption in the family process related to the birth of a baby with an inherited disorder. Women commonly experience body image disturbances in the postpartum period; however, this is unrelated to giving birth to a child with Down syndrome. The mother likely will have a mix of emotions that may include anxiety, guilt, and denial, but this is not the most essential nursing diagnosis for this family. Risk for injury is not an applicable nursing diagnosis.
30. Which statement about multifetal pregnancy is inaccurate? 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.
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.
29. Physiologic anemia often occurs during pregnancy as a result of: a. Inadequate intake of iron. b. Dilution of hemoglobin concentration. c. The fetus establishing iron stores. d. Decreased production of erythrocytes.
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 dilution of hemoglobin concentration rather than inadequate hemoglobin. Inadequate intake of iron may lead to true anemia. There is an increased production of erythrocytes during pregnancy.
33. During pregnancy, many changes occur as a direct result of the presence of the fetus. Which of these adaptations meet this criteria? a. Leukorrhea b. Development of the operculum c. Quickening d. Ballottement e. Lightening
ANS: C, D, E Leukorrhea is a white or slightly gray vaginal discharge that develops in response to cervical stimulation by estrogen and progesterone. Quickening is the first recognition of fetal movements or feeling life. Quickening is often described as a flutter and is felt earlier in multiparous women than in primiparas. Lightening occurs when the fetus begins to descend into the pelvis. This occurs 2 weeks before labor in the nullipara and at the start of labor in the multipara. Mucus fills the cervical canal creating a plug otherwise known as the operculum. The operculum acts as a barrier against bacterial invasion during the pregnancy. Passive movement of the unengaged fetus is referred to as ballottement.
21. The measurement of lecithin in relation to sphingomyelin (L/S ratio) is used to determine fetal lung maturity. Which ratio reflects maturity of the lungs? a. 1.4:1 b. 1.8:1 c. 2:1 d. 1:1
ANS: C A ratio of 2:1 indicates a two-to-one ratio of L/S, an indicator of lung maturity. Ratios of 1.4:1, 1.8:1, and 1:1 indicate immaturity of the fetal lungs.
26. With regard to the development of the respiratory system, maternity nurses should be understand that: a. The respiratory system does not begin developing until after the embryonic stage. b. The infants lungs are considered mature when the lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio is 1:1, at about 32 weeks. 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.
ANS: C A reduction in placental blood flow stresses the fetus, increases blood levels of corticosteroids, and accelerates lung maturity. Development of the respiratory system begins during the embryonic phase and continues into childhood. The infants lungs are mature when the L/S ratio is 2:1, at about 35 weeks. Lung movements have been seen on ultrasound scans at 11 weeks
15. A pregnant woman at 25 weeks 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 cant respond like that. b. The fetus is demonstrating the aural reflex. c. Babies respond to sound starting at about 24 weeks of gestation. d. Let me know if it happens again; we need to report that to your midwife.
ANS: C Babies respond to sound starting at about 24 weeks of gestation is an accurate statement. That must have been a coincidence; babies cant respond like that is inaccurate. Acoustic stimulations can evoke a fetal heart rate response. There is no such thing as an aural reflex. The statement, Let me know if it happens again; we need to report that to your midwife is not appropriate; it gives the impression that something is wrong.
22. With regard to the initial visit with a client who is beginning prenatal care, nurses should be aware that: a. The first interview is a relaxed, get-acquainted affair in which nurses gather some general impressions. b. If nurses observe handicapping conditions, they should be sensitive and not inquire about them because the client will do that in her own time. c. Nurses should be alert to the appearance of potential parenting problems, such as depression or lack of family support. d. Because of legal complications, nurses should not ask about illegal drug use; that is left to physicians.
ANS: C Besides these potential problems, nurses need to be alert to the womans attitude toward health care. The initial interview needs to be planned, purposeful, and focused on specific content. A lot of ground must be covered. Nurses must be sensitive to special problems, but they do need to inquire because discovering individual needs is important. People with chronic or handicapping conditions forget to mention them because they have adapted to them. Getting information on drug use is important and can be done confidentially. Actual testing for drug use requires the clients consent.
23. Some pregnant clients may complain of changes in their voice and impaired hearing. The nurse can tell these clients that these are common reactions to: a. A decreased estrogen level. b. Displacement of the diaphragm, resulting in thoracic breathing. c. Congestion and swelling, which occur because the upper respiratory tract has become more vascular. d. Increased blood volume.
ANS: C Estrogen levels increase, causing the upper respiratory tract to become more vascular producing swelling and congestion in the nose and ears leading to voice changes and impaired hearing. The diaphragm is displaced, and the volume of blood is increased. However, the main concern is increased estrogen levels
The nurse is providing genetic counseling for an expectant couple who already have a child with trisomy 18. The nurse should: a. Tell the couple they need to have an abortion within 2 to 3 weeks. b. Explain that the fetus has a 50% chance of having the disorder. c. Discuss options with the couple, including amniocentesis to determine whether the fetus is affected. d. Refer the couple to a psychologist for emotional support.
ANS: C Genetic testing, including amniocentesis, would need to be performed to determine whether the fetus is affected. The couple should be given information about the likelihood of having another baby with this disorder so that they can make an informed decision. A genetic counselor is the best source for determining genetic probability ratios. The couple eventually may need emotional support, but the status of the pregnancy must be determined first.
32. In response to requests by the U.S. Public Health Service for new models of prenatal care, an innovative new approach to prenatal care known as centering pregnancy was developed. Which statement would accurately apply to the centering model of care? a. Group sessions begin with the first prenatal visit. b. At each visit, blood pressure, weight, and urine dipsticks are obtained by the nurse. c. Eight to 12 women are placed in gestational-age cohort groups. d. Outcomes are similar to those of traditional prenatal care.
ANS: C Gestational age cohorts comprise the groups, with approximately 8 to 12 women in each group. This group remains intact throughout the pregnancy. Individual follow-up visits are scheduled as needed. Group sessions begin at 12 to 16 weeks of gestation and end with an early postpartum visit. Before group sessions the client has an individual assessment, physical examination, and history. At the beginning of each group meeting, clients measure their own blood pressure, weight, and urine dips and enter these in their record. Fetal heart rate assessment and fundal height are obtained by the nurse. Results evaluating this approach have been very promising. In a study of adolescent clients, there was a decrease in low-birth-weight infants and an increase in breastfeeding rates.
A couple has been counseled for genetic anomalies. They ask you, What is karyotyping? Your best response is: a. Karyotyping will reveal if the babys lungs are mature. b. Karyotyping will reveal if your baby will develop normally. c. Karyotyping will provide information about the gender of the baby and the number and structure of the chromosomes. d. Karyotyping will detect any physical deformities the baby has.
ANS: C Karyotyping provides genetic information such as gender and chromosome structure. The L/S, not karyotyping, reveals lung maturity. Although karyotyping can detect genetic anomalies, the range of normal is nondescriptive. Although karyotyping can detect genetic anomalies, not all such anomalies display obvious physical deformities. The term deformities is a nondescriptive word. Physical anomalies may be present that are not detected by genetic studies (e.g., cardiac malformations)
20. To reassure and educate pregnant clients about changes in their breasts, nurses should be aware that: a. The visibility of blood vessels that form an intertwining blue network indicates full function of Montgomerys tubercles and possibly infection of the tubercles. b. The mammary glands do not develop until 2 weeks before labor. c. Lactation is inhibited until the estrogen 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. The visible blue network of blood vessels is a normal outgrowth of a richer blood supply. The mammary glands are functionally complete by midpregnancy. Colostrum is a creamy, white-to-yellow premilk fluid that can be expressed from the nipples before birth.
19. With regard to a womans reordering of personal relationships during pregnancy, the maternity nurse should understand that: a. Because of the special motherhood bond, a womans relationship with her mother is even more important than with the father of the child. 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 father. d. The womans 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 the father. Nurses can facilitate communication between partners about sexual matters if, as is common, they are nervous about expressing their worries and feelings. The second trimester is the time when a womans sense of well-being, along with certain physical changes, increases her desire for sex. Desire is decreased in the first and third trimesters
In practical terms regarding genetic health care, nurses should be aware that: a. Genetic disorders affect people of all socioeconomic backgrounds, races, and ethnic groups equally. b. Genetic health care is more concerned with populations than individuals. c. The most important of all nursing functions is providing emotional support to the family during counseling. d. Taking genetic histories is the province of large universities and medical centers.
ANS: C Nurses should be prepared to help with various stress reactions from a couple facing the possibility of a genetic disorder. Although anyone may have a genetic disorder, certain disorders appear more often in certain ethnic and racial groups. Genetic health care is highly individualized because treatments are based on the phenotypic responses of the individual. Individual nurses at any facility can take a genetic history, although larger facilities may have better support services
12. A patient at 24 weeks of gestation contacts the nurse at her obstetric providers office to complain that she has cravings for dirt and gravel. The nurse is aware that this condition is known as ________ and may indicate 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. Ptyalism (excessive salivation), pyrosis (heartburn), and decreased peristalsis are normal findings of gastrointestinal change during pregnancy. Food cravings during pregnancy are normal.
14. A womans 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 dont really know when such defects occur. b. It depends on what caused the defect. c. They 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 dont really know when such defects occur is an inaccurate statement. Regardless of the cause, the heart is vulnerable during its period of development, the third to fifth weeks. They usually occur in the first 2 weeks of development is an inaccurate statement.
A father and mother are carriers of phenylketonuria (PKU). Their 2-year-old daughter has PKU. The couple tells the nurse that they are planning to have a second baby. Because their daughter has PKU, they are sure that their next baby won't be affected. What response by the nurse is most accurate? a. Good planning; you need to take advantage of the odds in your favor. b. I think you'd better check with your doctor first. c. You are both carriers, so each baby has a 25% chance of being affected. d. The ultrasound indicates a boy, and boys are not affected by PKU.
ANS: C The chance is one in four that each child produced by this couple will be affected by PKU disorder. This couple still has an increased likelihood of having a child with PKU. Having one child already with PKU does not guarantee that they will not have another. These parents need to discuss their options with their physician. However, an opportune time has presented itself for the couple to receive correct teaching about inherited genetic risks. No correlation exists between gender and inheritance of the disorder because PKU is an autosomal recessive disorder.
11. The nurse should be aware that the partners main role in pregnancy is to: a. Provide financial support. b. Protect the pregnant woman from old wives tales. c. Support and nurture the pregnant woman. d. Make sure the pregnant woman keeps prenatal appointments.
ANS: C The partners main role in pregnancy is to nurture the pregnant woman and respond to her feelings of vulnerability. In older societies, the man enacted the ritual couvade. Changing cultural and professional attitudes have encouraged fathers participation in the birth experience over the past 30 years.
22. Sally comes in for her first prenatal examination. This is her first child. She asks you (the nurse), How does my baby get air inside my uterus? The correct response is: a. The babys 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 babys abdomen.
ANS: C The placenta functions by supplying oxygen and excreting carbon dioxide to the maternal bloodstream. The fetal lungs do not function for respiratory gas exchange in utero. The baby does not simply absorb oxygen from a womans blood system. Blood and gas transport occur through the placenta. The placenta delivers oxygen-rich blood through the umbilical vein and not the artery.
27. To provide the patient with accurate information about dental care during pregnancy, maternity nurses should be aware that: a. Dental care can be dropped from the priority list because the woman has enough to worry about and is getting a lot of calcium anyway. b. Dental surgery, in particular, is contraindicated because of the psychologic stress it engenders. c. If dental treatment is necessary, the woman will be most comfortable with it in the second trimester. d. Dental care interferes with the expectant mothers need to practice conscious relaxation.
ANS: C The second trimester is best for dental treatment because that is when the woman will be able to sit most comfortably in the dental chair. Dental care such as brushing with fluoride toothpaste is especially important during pregnancy because nausea during pregnancy may lead to poor oral hygiene. Emergency dental surgery is permissible, but the mother must clearly understand the risks and benefits. Conscious relaxation is useful, and it may even help the woman get through any dental appointments; it is not a reason to avoid them.
24. With regard to follow-up visits for women receiving prenatal care, nurses should be aware that: 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 blood pressure (BP) of 130 and a diastolic BP of 80 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 blood pressure and a feeling of faintness. The interview portion of 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 or greater and a diastolic BP of 90 or greater
16. At approximately _____ weeks of gestation, lecithin is forming on the alveolar surfaces, the eyelids open, and the fetus measures approximately 27 cm crown to rump and weighs approximately 1110 g. a. 20 b. 24 c. 28 d. 30
ANS: C These milestones human development occur at approximately 28 weeks
4. A pregnant woman at 10 weeks of gestation jogs three or four times per week. She is concerned about the effect of exercise on the fetus. The nurse should inform her: a. You dont 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.
23. The most basic information a maternity nurse should have concerning conception is that: a. Ova are considered fertile 48 to 72 hours after ovulation. b. Sperm remain viable in the womans reproductive system for an average of 12 to 24 hours. c. Conception is achieved when a sperm successfully penetrates the membrane surrounding the ovum. d. Implantation in the endometrium occurs 6 to 10 days after conception
ANS: D After implantation, the endometrium is called the decidua. Ova are considered fertile for about 24 hours after ovulation. Sperm remain viable in the womans reproductive system for an average of 2 to 3 days. Penetration of the ovum by the sperm is called fertilization. Conception occurs when the zygote, the first cell of the new individual, is formed
31. The phenomenon of someone other than the mother-to-be experiencing pregnancy-like symptoms such as nausea and weight gain applies to the: a. Mother of the pregnant woman. b. Couples teenage daughter. c. Sister of the pregnant woman. d. Expectant father.
ANS: D An expectant fathers experiencing pregnancy-like symptoms is called the couvade syndrome.
33. While you are assessing the vital signs of a pregnant woman in her third trimester, the patient complains of feeling faint, dizzy, and agitated. Which nursing intervention is appropriate? a. Have the patient stand up and retake her blood pressure. b. Have the patient sit down and hold her arm in a dependent position. c. Have the patient lie supine for 5 minutes and recheck her blood pressure on both arms. d. Have the patient turn to her left side and recheck her blood pressure in 5 minutes.
ANS: D Blood pressure 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 patient is standing. This option causes an increase in systolic and diastolic pressures. The arm should be Test Bank - Maternal Child Nursing Care by Perry (6th Edition, 2017) 127 supported at the same level of the heart. The supine position may cause occlusion of the vena cava and descending aorta, creating hypotension
19. The _____ is/are 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 of 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
22. To reassure and educate their pregnant clients about changes in their blood pressure, maternity nurses should be aware that: 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 clients position and changing from arm to arm for different measurements produces the most accurate composite blood pressure reading at each visit. c. The systolic blood pressure increases slightly as pregnancy advances; the 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 term pregnancy.
ANS: D Compression of the iliac veins and inferior vena cava also leads to varicose veins in the legs and vulva. The tightness of a 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 pregnancy advances. The diastolic blood pressure first decreases and then gradually increases
20. A woman who is 8 months pregnant asks the nurse, Does my baby have any antibodies to fight infection? The most appropriate response by the nurse is: a. Your baby has all the immune globulins necessary: IgG, IgM, and IgA. b. Your baby wont 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, the only immune globulins that crosses the placenta, IgG, provides passive acquired immunity to specific bacterial toxins. The fetus produces IgM by the end of the first trimester. IgA is not produced by the baby. By the third trimester, the fetus has IgG and IgM. Breastfeeding supplies the baby with IgA. Your baby does not have any antibodies to fight infection is an inaccurate statement.
With regard to the estimation and interpretation of the recurrence of risks for genetic disorders, nurses should be aware that: a. With a dominant disorder, the likelihood of the second child also having the condition is 100%. b. An autosomal recessive disease carries a one in eight risk of the second child also having the disorder. c. Disorders involving maternal ingestion of drugs carry a one in four chance of being repeated in the second child. d. The risk factor remains the same no matter how many affected children are already in the family.
ANS: D Each pregnancy is an independent event. The risk factor (e.g., one in two, one in four) remains the same for each child, no matter how many children are born to the family. In a dominant disorder, the likelihood of recurrence in subsequent children is 50% (one in two). An autosomal recessive disease carries a one in four chance of recurrence. In disorders involving maternal ingestion of drugs, subsequent children would be at risk only if the mother continued to take drugs; the rate of risk would be difficult to calculate.
16. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is an important biochemical marker for pregnancy and the basis for many tests. A maternity nurse should be aware that: a. hCG can be detected 2.5 weeks after conception. b. The hCG level increases gradually and uniformly throughout pregnancy. c. Much lower than normal increases in the level of hCG may indicate a postdate pregnancy. d. A higher than normal level of hCG may indicate an ectopic pregnancy or Down syndrome.
ANS: D Higher levels also could be a sign of multiple gestation. hCG can be detected 7 to 8 days after conception. The hCG level fluctuates during pregnancy: peaking, declining, stabilizing, and increasing again. Abnormally slow increases may indicate impending miscarriage.
18. To reassure and educate pregnant clients about changes in the cervix, vagina, and position of the fetus, nurses should be aware that: a. Because of a number of changes in the cervix, abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) tests are much 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 (Chadwicks 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. This frequently occurs during the second trimester. 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. Chadwicks sign appears from the sixth to eighth weeks
25. Which statement about a condition of pregnancy is accurate? 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 nausea and vomiting periods may be less likely to result in miscarriage or preterm labor. Ptyalism is excessive salivation, which may be caused by a decrease in unconscious swallowing or stimulation of the salivary glands. Pyrosis begins in the first trimester and intensifies through the third trimester. Increased hormone production does not lead to hyperthyroidism in pregnant women
28. When discussing work and travel during pregnancy with a pregnant patient, nurses should instruct them that: 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 a number of times. d. While working or traveling in a car or on a plane, 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.
11. The nurse caring for the pregnant client must understand that the hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy is: a. Estrogen. b. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). c. Oxytocin. d. Progesterone.
ANS: D Progesterone is essential for maintaining pregnancy; it does so by relaxing smooth muscles. This 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 increase at implantation but decline after 60 to 70 days. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions.
3. Which symptom is considered a first-trimester warning sign and should be reported immediately 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 potential complications of the pregnancy. Nausea with occasional vomiting, fatigue, and urinary frequency are normal first-trimester complaints. Although they may be worrisome or annoying to the mother, they usually are not indications of pregnancy problems
7. 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 Striae gravidarum, or stretch marks, reflect separation within the underlying connective tissue of the skin. They usually fade after birth, although they never disappear completely. An epulis is a red, raised nodule on the gums that bleeds easily. Chloasma, or mask of pregnancy, is a blotchy, brown hyperpigmentation of the skin over the cheeks, nose, and forehead, especially in dark-complexioned pregnant women. Chloasma usually fades after the birth. Telangiectasia, or vascular spiders, are tiny, star-shaped or branchlike, slightly raised, pulsating end-arterioles usually found on the neck, thorax, face, and arms. They occur as a result of elevated levels of circulating estrogen. These usually disappear after birth.
29. Some of the embryos intestines remain within the umbilical cord during the embryonic period because the: a. Umbilical cord is much larger at this time than it will be at the end of pregnancy. b. Intestines begin their development within the umbilical cord. c. Nutrient content of the blood is higher in this location. d. Abdomen is too small to contain all the organs while they are developing.
ANS: D The abdominal contents grow more rapidly than the abdominal cavity, so part of their development takes place in the umbilical cord. By 10 weeks of gestation, the abdomen is large enough to contain them. Intestines begin their development within the umbilical cord, but only because the liver and kidneys occupy most of the abdominal cavity. Blood supply is adequate in all areas
15. In her work with pregnant women of various cultures, a nurse practitioner has observed various practices that seemed strange or unusual. She has learned that cultural rituals and practices during pregnancy seem to have one purpose in common. Which statement best describes that purpose? a. To promote family unity b. To ward off the evil eye c. To appease the gods of fertility d. To protect the mother and fetus during pregnancy
ANS: D The purpose of all cultural practices is to protect the mother and fetus during pregnancy. Although many cultures consider pregnancy normal, certain practices are expected of women of all cultures to ensure a good outcome. Cultural prescriptions tell women what to do, and cultural proscriptions establish taboos. The purposes of these practices are to prevent maternal illness resulting from a pregnancy-induced imbalanced state and to protect the vulnerable fetus.
7. 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. The nurse would tell her: a. Since youre in your second trimester, theres 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 youre 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.
10. A woman is 3 months pregnant. At her prenatal visit, she tells the nurse that she doesnt know what is happening; one minute shes happy that she is pregnant, and the next minute she cries for no reason. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? a. Dont worry about it; youll feel better in a month or so. b. Have you talked to your husband about how you feel? c. Perhaps you really dont want to be pregnant. d. Hormonal changes during pregnancy commonly result in mood swings.
ANS: D The statement Hormonal changes during pregnancy commonly result in mood swings is accurate and the most appropriate response by the nurse. The statement Dont worry about it; youll feel better in a month or so dismisses the clients concerns and is not the most appropriate response. Although women should be encouraged to share their feelings, Have you talked to your husband about how you feel is not the most appropriate response and does not provide the client with a rationale for the psychosocial dynamics of her pregnancy. Perhaps you really dont 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 womans responses are normal. She should be reassured about her feelings.
20. What represents a typical progression through the phases of a womans establishing a relationship with the fetus? a. Accepts the fetus as distinct from herselfaccepts the biologic fact of pregnancyhas a feeling of caring and responsibility b. Fantasizes about the childs gender and personalityviews the child as part of herselfbecomes introspective c. Views the child as part of herselfhas feelings of well-beingaccepts the biologic fact of pregnancy d. I am pregnant.I am going to have a baby.I am going to be a mother.
ANS: D The woman first centers on herself as pregnant, then on the baby as an entity separate from herself, and then on her responsibilities as a mother. The expressions, I am pregnant, I am going to have a baby, and I am going to be a mother sum up the progression through the three phases.
9. For what reason would breastfeeding be contraindicated? a. Hepatitis B b. Everted nipples c. History of breast cancer 3 years ago d. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive
ANS: D Women who are HIV positive are discouraged from breastfeeding. Although hepatitis B antigen has not been shown to be transmitted through breast milk, as an added precaution infants born to HBsAg-positive women should receive the hepatitis B vaccine and immune globulin immediately after birth. Everted nipples are functional for breastfeeding. Newly diagnosed breast cancer would be a contraindication to breastfeeding.
A woman arrives at the clinic for a pregnancy test. The first day of her last menstrual period (LMP) was September 10, 2013. Her expected date of birth (EDB) would be? ___________________
ANS: June 17, 2014 Using Ngeles rule, June 17, 2014, is the correct EDB. The EDB is calculated by subtracting 3 months from the first day of the LMP and adding 7 days + 1 year to the day of the LMP. Therefore, with an LMP of September 10, 2013: September 10, 2013 3 months = June 10, 2013 + 7 days = June 17, 2013 + 1 year = June 17, 2014