Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy

Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Related

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Now in her second trimester of pregnancy, the client, who was a marathon runner before nausea and overwhelming tiredness kept her from exercising regularly, is wondering whether she can run now. What is the nurse's best response?

  • A. Certainly, if you feel up to it.
  • B. Your level of exercise will be somewhat modified by the changes occurring in your body.
  • C. Your primary health care provider will need to give you permission.
  • D. Because your body is meeting the needs of two people now, you should avoid too much exercise.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Your level of exercise will be somewhat modified by the changes occurring in your body."

Rationale:
1. Pregnancy impacts a woman's body significantly, including changes in hormones, weight distribution, and center of gravity.
2. These changes can affect a woman's ability to engage in high-impact activities like running.
3. The nurse's response acknowledges the need for modification in exercise routine to accommodate these changes.
4. It promotes a balanced approach to exercise during pregnancy, considering both the benefits of physical activity and the safety of the mother and baby.

Summary of Other Choices:
A: "Certainly, if you feel up to it." - This response oversimplifies the situation and does not consider the specific physiological changes during pregnancy that may impact the woman's ability to run safely.
C: "Your primary health care provider will need to give you permission." - While consulting a healthcare provider is important, this response does not address the specific concerns related to exercise during pregnancy.

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Which physiologic finding is consistent with normal pregnancy?

  • A. Systemic vascular resistance increases as blood pressure decreases.
  • B. Cardiac output increases during pregnancy.
  • C. Blood pressure remains consistent independent of position changes
  • D. Maternal vasoconstriction occurs in response to increased metabolism.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because during pregnancy, the body's demand for oxygen and nutrients increases, leading to an increase in cardiac output to meet these needs. This is due to the expansion of blood volume and the need to supply the growing fetus. Systemic vascular resistance decreases to accommodate the increased blood flow, so choice A is incorrect. Blood pressure typically decreases in early pregnancy but may change with position due to the weight of the uterus on the vena cava, making choice C incorrect. Maternal vasodilation, not vasoconstriction, occurs in response to increased metabolism to support the increased blood flow needed for the growing fetus, making choice D incorrect.

A first-time mother at 18 weeks of gestation comes for her regularly scheduled prenatal visit. The patient 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 patient that this type of contraction:

  • A. is painless.
  • B. increases with walking.
  • C. causes cervical dilation.
  • D. impedes oxygen flow to the fetus.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: is painless. Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions that are usually painless and irregular. They do not lead to cervical dilation or impede oxygen flow to the fetus. By educating the patient that these contractions are normal and not a cause for concern, the nurse can help alleviate the patient's fears. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions do not increase with walking, cause cervical dilation, or impact oxygen flow to the fetus. It is important for the patient to understand the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions to avoid unnecessary anxiety and stress.

The woman who is primigravida is in the clinic for her first prenatal visit. She states that she has experienced dizziness when she gets out of bed and sometimes when she stands up from a sitting position. What is the reason for this?

  • A. She is experiencing hypoglycemia from being diabetic.
  • B. She is standing up too quickly and must be careful to avoid injury.
  • C. She needs to drink more fluids to prevent orthostatic hypotension and it will clear up soon.
  • D. She is not getting enough exercise, so circulation to the head and upper extremities is less than optimal.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: She is standing up too quickly and must be careful to avoid injury. When a person stands up quickly, blood pools in the lower extremities, causing a momentary drop in blood pressure. This sudden drop can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness. This phenomenon is known as orthostatic hypotension. It is common during pregnancy due to the hormonal and physiological changes that affect blood pressure regulation.

Explanation for why other choices are incorrect:
A: She is experiencing hypoglycemia from being diabetic - There is no information provided in the scenario to suggest that the woman is diabetic or experiencing low blood sugar levels.
C: She needs to drink more fluids to prevent orthostatic hypotension and it will clear up soon - While staying hydrated is important, simply drinking more fluids may not address the underlying issue of orthostatic hypotension caused by rapid changes in position.
D: She is not getting enough exercise, so circulation to the

What is the term for the step in maternal role attainment that relates to the woman giving up certain aspects of her previous life?

  • A. Fantasy
  • B. Grief work
  • C. Role playing
  • D. Looking for a fit
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Grief work. In the process of maternal role attainment, giving up certain aspects of her previous life involves experiencing grief over the losses associated with the new role. This step is essential for the woman to fully embrace her new identity as a mother. Fantasy (A) refers to imagining scenarios, role playing (C) involves acting out behaviors, and looking for a fit (D) focuses on finding a balance between personal needs and the demands of the maternal role. Grief work is the most appropriate term that specifically addresses the emotional process of letting go and adjusting to the new responsibilities of motherhood.

Which comment made by a new mother to her own mother is most likely to encourage the grandmother's participation in the infant's care?

  • A. "Could you help me with the housework today?"
  • B. "The baby is spitting up a lot. What should I do?"
  • C. "I know you are busy, so I'll get John's mother to help me
  • D. “The baby has a stomachache. I’ll call the nurse to find out what to do.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it directly involves the grandmother in the baby's care by seeking advice and guidance. Asking for help with a specific issue shows trust and respect for the grandmother's experience. Choice A is about housework, not infant care. Choice C suggests seeking help elsewhere. Choice D involves a healthcare professional, not the grandmother.

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