Maternal NCLEX Related

Review Maternal NCLEX related questions and content

The Caucasian postpartum client asks the nurse if the stretch marks (striae gravidarum) on her abdomen will ever go away. Which response by the nurse is most accurate?

  • A. “Your stretch marks should totally disappear over the next month.”
  • B. “Your stretch marks will always appear raised and reddened.”
  • C. “Your stretch marks will lighten in color with good skin hydration.”
  • D. “Your stretch marks will fade to pale white over the next 3 to 6 months.”
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Stretch marks will fade but will not totally disappear. Stretch marks will fade and will not always appear reddened. There is no evidence that keeping the skin hydrated will lighten the appearance of the stretch marks. In Caucasian women, stretch marks will fade to a pale white over 3 to 6 months.