A client in her first trimester of pregnancy is scheduled for an ultrasound.
Which of the following would not be a reason for an ultrasound at this stage?
Determine fetal position.
Detect multiple gestations.
Detect maternal abnormalities.
Confirm pregnancy.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Fetal position during the first trimester is not definitively determined through ultrasound. While the gestational sac and fetal pole can be visualized, the fetus is still quite small and has ample space to move within the amniotic sac. This makes it challenging to accurately ascertain its position.
Reliable assessment of fetal position typically occurs later in pregnancy, usually between 34 and 36 weeks gestation. At this point, the fetus is larger and less mobile, allowing for a clearer assessment of its position through ultrasound.
The early determination of fetal position in the first trimester is not a primary goal of ultrasound. It is more focused on establishing pregnancy viability, gestational age, and detecting any potential abnormalities.
Choice B rationale:
Ultrasound in the first trimester can reliably detect multiple gestations. It can visualize the presence of multiple gestational sacs or fetal poles, clearly indicating whether a woman is carrying twins, triplets, or more.
Early identification of multiple gestations is crucial for optimal pregnancy management. It allows healthcare providers to tailor prenatal care, monitor for potential complications associated with multiple pregnancies, and plan for appropriate delivery. Choice C rationale:
Ultrasound in the first trimester can assist in detecting certain maternal abnormalities that could impact pregnancy. These may include:
Uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids or structural defects
Ovarian cysts
Ectopic pregnancies (where the embryo implants outside the uterus)
Gestational trophoblastic disease (abnormal growth of tissue inside the uterus)
Early identification of these maternal abnormalities allows for timely intervention and management, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both mother and fetus.
Choice D rationale:
Confirming pregnancy is a primary reason for ultrasound in the first trimester. It can visualize the gestational sac, which contains the developing embryo and confirms the presence of a pregnancy.
Ultrasound can also detect the fetal heartbeat, which typically becomes visible between 6 and 8 weeks gestation. This provides further confirmation of a viable pregnancy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Diagnosing a fetus with a genetic disorder is outside the scope of practice for nurses. This task requires specialized training and expertise in genetics and diagnostic procedures, typically held by physicians such as geneticists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, or genetic counselors.
Nurses play a crucial role in genetic counseling, but their responsibilities focus on:
Educating patients about genetic risks and testing options.
Obtaining informed consent for genetic testing.
Coordinating genetic testing appointments and procedures.
Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and families.
Facilitating communication between patients, families, and other healthcare providers.
Advocating for patients' rights and needs.
Choice B rationale:
Providing emotional support is a core component of nursing care, including genetic counseling. Nurses are trained to provide empathetic and compassionate support to patients and families who are facing the challenges of genetic conditions. This includes:
Active listening and validation of feelings.
Assisting with coping mechanisms and stress management.
Connecting patients with support groups and resources.
Promoting resilience and hope.
Choice C rationale:
Identifying at-risk families is a vital role for nurses in genetic counseling. By recognizing families with a history of genetic disorders or those who exhibit risk factors, nurses can initiate early intervention and preventive measures. This includes:
Taking a thorough family history.
Assessing risk factors and potential genetic concerns.
Educating families about their potential risks.
Referring families for genetic counseling and testing as appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
Collaboration with other healthcare providers and referral for specialized care are essential aspects of genetic counseling. Nurses often work within interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care for patients with genetic concerns. This includes:
Communicating with geneticists, genetic counselors, and other specialists.
Coordinating referrals for genetic testing, counseling, and treatment.
Ensuring continuity of care across different healthcare settings.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale:
It is a misconception that fetal movement decreases as delivery approaches. While the nature of the movements may change— becoming less like kicks and more like rolls or twists due to less space in the uterus—the frequency of movements should remain consistent. In fact, increased fetal movement can be a sign of labor approaching. Therefore, a pregnant client who believes that fetal movements will decrease closer to delivery needs further instruction to ensure they are aware of this important health indicator.
Here's a detailed explanation of why the other choices are correct:
Choice A: This statement is correct. Fetal kick counts can be performed at home, providing a convenient and comfortable way to monitor fetal well-being.
Choice B: This statement is also correct. A decrease in fetal movement, defined as less than 3 kicks in an hour, is a potential concern and warrants contacting a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Choice D: This statement is accurate as well. Daily fetal kick counts are generally recommended to establish a baseline of the baby's usual activity pattern and to detect any significant changes that might indicate a problem.
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