Maternal Monitoring During Labor ppt Related

Review Maternal Monitoring During Labor ppt related questions and content

A pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation reports experiencing dizziness and faintness when standing up. What is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

  • A. Low blood sugar levels due to gestational diabetes.
  • B. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
  • C. Decreased blood pressure due to pregnancy-related changes.
  • D. Anemia and low iron levels.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decreased blood pressure due to pregnancy-related changes. During pregnancy, blood vessels dilate and the growing uterus can compress the vena cava, leading to decreased blood return to the heart when standing up, causing dizziness and faintness. This condition is known as orthostatic hypotension, common in the third trimester. Low blood sugar levels (choice A) and dehydration/electrolyte imbalance (choice B) can also cause dizziness but are less likely in this scenario. Anemia and low iron levels (choice D) can lead to fatigue and weakness but are less likely to cause dizziness and faintness when standing up in this context.