The nurse is aware of concern about the increasing numbers of severe maternal morbidity (SMM). It is believed to be related to changes in the overall health of the population of women giving birth. Which reasons does the nurse identify as causes of SMM? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prepregnancy obesity. This is because obesity is a well-established risk factor for severe maternal morbidity. Obesity increases the likelihood of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean deliveries.
A: Increases in maternal age may be a risk factor for certain complications but not directly related to SMM.
C: Cesarean deliveries can be a risk factor for SMM, but it is not the main cause.
D: Inability to pay for health care is a social determinant of health and may impact access to care, but it is not a direct cause of SMM.