Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing 9th Edition Test Bank - Nursing Care of Women with Complications During Pregnancy Related

Review Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing 9th Edition Test Bank - Nursing Care of Women with Complications During Pregnancy related questions and content

Why does the woman taking oral hypoglycemic agents to control diabetes mellitus need to take insulin during pregnancy?

  • A. Insulin can cross the placental barrier to the fetus.
  • B. Insulin does not cross the placental barrier to the fetus.
  • C. Oral agents do not cross the placenta.
  • D. Oral agents are not sufficient to meet maternal insulin needs.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Oral hypoglycemic agents are not used during pregnancy, because they can cross the placenta, possibly resulting in fetal birth defects or hypoglycemia.