Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Quizlet Related

Review Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Quizlet related questions and content

Which physiologic findings related to gallbladder function may lead to the development of gallstones during pregnancy?

  • A. Decrease in alkaline phosphatase levels compared with nonpregnant women
  • B. Increase in albumin and total protein as a result of hemodilution
  • C. Hypertonicity of gallbladder tissue
  • D. Prolonged emptying time
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Prolonged emptying time. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to gallbladder stasis, causing bile to become concentrated and leading to the formation of gallstones. Prolonged emptying time indicates poor gallbladder motility, increasing the risk of gallstone formation.

A: Decrease in alkaline phosphatase levels is not directly related to gallstone formation during pregnancy.
B: Increase in albumin and total protein is a common finding in pregnancy due to hemodilution, but it is not directly linked to gallstone development.
C: Hypertonicity of gallbladder tissue is not a typical physiologic finding related to gallbladder function during pregnancy and is not a known risk factor for gallstone formation.