Maternal Newborn ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Maternal Newborn ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

During preterm labor, a client is scheduled for an amniocentesis. The nurse should review which of the following tests to assess fetal lung maturity?

  • A. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
  • B. Lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio
  • C. Kleihauer-Betke test
  • D. Indirect Coombs' test
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio. This test is used to assess fetal lung maturity by determining the ratio of two substances present in amniotic fluid. An L/S ratio of 2:1 or higher indicates mature fetal lungs, reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.

A: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is used to screen for neural tube defects, not fetal lung maturity.
C: Kleihauer-Betke test is used to detect fetal-maternal hemorrhage.
D: Indirect Coombs' test is used to detect antibodies in maternal blood that may attack fetal red blood cells, not assess fetal lung maturity.

In summary, the L/S ratio test is the most appropriate choice to assess fetal lung maturity during preterm labor, as it directly correlates with the development of the fetal lungs.