Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy

Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Related

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To reassure and educate pregnant patients about changes in the cervix, vagina, and position of the fetus, nurses should be aware that:

  • A. because of a number of changes in the cervix, abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) tests
    are much easier to evaluate.
  • B. Quickening is a technique of palpating the fetus to engage it in passive movement.
  • C. the deepening color of the vaginal mucosa and cervix (Chadwick's sign) usually appears in the second trimester or later as the vagina prepares to stretch during labor.
  • D. increased vascularity of the vagina increases sensitivity and may lead to a high degree of arousal, especially in the second trimester.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because increased vascularity of the vagina during pregnancy leads to heightened sensitivity and can result in increased arousal, especially in the second trimester. This is due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes affecting the vaginal tissues. This physiological response is a normal part of pregnancy and can enhance sexual experiences for some women.

A is incorrect because changes in the cervix do not impact the evaluation of abnormal Pap tests. B is incorrect as quickening refers to the first perception of fetal movements by the pregnant woman, not palpating the fetus. C is incorrect as Chadwick's sign, the deepening color of the vaginal mucosa and cervix, typically appears in the first trimester, not the second trimester.

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To reassure and educate their pregnant patients about changes in their blood pressure, maternity nurses should be aware that:

  • A. a blood pressure cuff that is too small produces a reading that is too low; a cuff that is too large produces a reading that is too high.
  • B. shifting the patient's position and changing from arm to arm for different measurements produces the most accurate composite blood pressure reading at each visit.
  • C. the systolic blood pressure increases slightly as pregnancy advances; the diastolic pressure remains constant.
  • D. compression of the iliac veins and inferior vena cava by the uterus contributes to hemorrhoids in the later stage of term pregnancy.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Compression of the iliac veins and inferior vena cava also leads to varicose veins in the legs and vulva.

The musculoskeletal system adapts to the changes that occur during pregnancy. A woman can expect to experience what change?

  • A. Her center of gravity will shift backward.
  • B. She will have increased lordosis.
  • C. She will have increased abdominal muscle tone.
  • D. She will notice decreased mobility of her pelvic joints.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: An increase in the normal lumbosacral curve (lordosis) develops, and a compensatory curvature in the cervicodorsal region develops to help the woman maintain her balance.

The ovaries are:

  • A. Located in the male reproductive system
  • B. A pair of small glands about the size and shape of almonds
  • C. Long tubes connecting the vagina to the cervix
  • D. Large elongated muscles found in the female bladder
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The ovaries are small, almond-shaped glands responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

During pregnancy, oxygen and nutrients diffuse across the from the mother to the foetus:

  • A. Placenta
  • B. Kidneys
  • C. Lungs
  • D. Cervix
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The placenta facilitates the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and fetus.

During vital sign assessment of a pregnant patient in her third trimester, the patient complains of
feeling faint, dizzy, and agitated. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

  • A. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
  • B. Have the patient stand up and retake her blood pressur
  • C. Have the patient sit down and hold her arm in a dependent position.
  • D. Have the patient turn to her left side and recheck her blood pressure in 5 minutes.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Have the patient turn to her left side and recheck her blood pressure in 5 minutes. This intervention is most appropriate because the patient is experiencing symptoms of potential hypotension, common in pregnant women due to changes in blood volume and hormonal levels. Turning the patient to her left side helps improve blood flow to the heart and can alleviate symptoms. Rechecking the blood pressure in 5 minutes allows for monitoring of any changes.

Choice A is incorrect as it does not provide a specific intervention. Choice B is incorrect as having the patient stand up may worsen symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as holding the arm in a dependent position may not effectively address the underlying issue of hypotension.

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