Conception and Fetal Development NCLEX Questions Related

Review Conception and Fetal Development NCLEX Questions related questions and content

What is the purpose of maternal assays and multiple marker screenings performed in the first trimester of pregnancy?

  • A. to determine the gender of the fetus
  • B. to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus
  • C. to monitor the growth and development of the placenta
  • D. to detect any potential maternal infections
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Maternal assays and multiple marker screenings in the first trimester are used to evaluate the risk of conditions like Down syndrome. These tests measure levels of certain proteins and hormones in the mother's blood to assess the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because determining the gender of the fetus, monitoring placental growth, and detecting maternal infections are not the primary purposes of these screenings in the first trimester.