Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy

Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Related

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During pregnancy, many changes occur as a direct result of the presence of the fetus. Which of these adaptations meet this criterion? (Select all that apply.)

  • A. Leukorrhea
  • B. Development of the operculum
  • C. Quickening
  • D. Ballottement
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Development of the operculum. This adaptation refers to the formation of a mucus plug in the cervix during pregnancy, which helps protect the fetus from infections. It is a direct result of the presence of the fetus as it serves as a physical barrier.

A: Leukorrhea is the increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy, but it is not a direct result of the fetus presence.
C: Quickening is the first fetal movements felt by the mother, but it is a fetal activity, not a direct adaptation.
D: Ballottement is a palpation technique used to assess the fetus position, not an adaptation directly caused by the fetus.

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The breast includes:

  • A. The nipple
  • B. The ovaries
  • C. The testes
  • D. The scrotum
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nipple is a key anatomical feature of the breast, involved in lactation and feeding.

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. amenorrhe
  • B. positive pregnancy test.
  • C. Chadwick's sign.
  • D. Hegar's sign.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: amenorrhea. At 10 weeks of gestation, a woman should have missed at least two menstrual periods, indicating amenorrhea. This is a presumptive sign of pregnancy as it is a common early pregnancy symptom. Positive pregnancy test (B) confirms pregnancy but is not specific to 10 weeks. Chadwick's sign (C) is a bluish discoloration of the cervix and vagina, typically seen around 6-8 weeks, not specifically at 10 weeks. Hegar's sign (D) is softening of the lower uterine segment, usually felt around 6-12 weeks, not specifically at 10 weeks.

Which of these findings would indicate a potential complication related to renal function during pregnancy?

  • A. Increase in glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
  • B. Increase in serum creatinine level
  • C. Decrease in blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
  • D. Mild proteinuria
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale:
1. In a healthy pregnancy, GFR increases to accommodate the increased metabolic demands.
2. An increase in serum creatinine level indicates impaired renal function, as creatinine clearance decreases during pregnancy.
3. Decrease in BUN is normal due to increased GFR.
4. Mild proteinuria can be common in pregnancy without indicating a complication.
Therefore, an increase in serum creatinine level (Choice B) suggests a potential renal complication during pregnancy.

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
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Between 14 and 20 weeks of gestation, the pulse increases about 10 to 15 beats/min, which persists to term.

A woman who is primigravida is complaining of leg cramps. Which statement by the nurse best describes how to provide relief from this discomfort?

  • A. Extend both of your legs and touch your toes to stretch your calf muscle.
  • B. Dorsiflex the foot to relieve the cramping.
  • C. Elevate the leg above your heart until the cramp has subsided.
  • D. Plantar flex the foot to relieve the cramping.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dorsiflex the foot to relieve the cramping. Dorsiflexing the foot, which involves pulling the toes towards the shin, helps to stretch the calf muscle and alleviate cramping. This action targets the specific muscle group affected by leg cramps.

A: Incorrect. Stretching by extending both legs and touching your toes may not directly target the calf muscle.
C: Incorrect. Elevating the leg above the heart is more suitable for reducing swelling, not necessarily relieving leg cramps.
D: Incorrect. Plantar flexing the foot (pointing toes away from the shin) may worsen the cramping as it contracts the calf muscle further.

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