A client is scheduled for an abdominal ultrasound in two weeks to assess fetal growth and development during pregnancy.

Which of these statements made by the client indicates that further teaching is needed?

This is because a nuchal translucency ultrasound measures the amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck in the first trimester of pregnancy, which can indicate the risk of having a chromosomal condition like Down syndrome.

Some possible explanations for the other choices are:

Choice A is wrong because fetal growth and development are not directly related to the nuchal translucency measurement.

Fetal growth and development are assessed by other parameters such as crown-rump length, biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference, etc.

Choice B is wrong because blood flow in the umbilical cord is not measured by the nuchal translucency ultrasound.

Blood flow in the umbilical cord is assessed by Doppler ultrasound, which evaluates the resistance and velocity of blood flow in the umbilical artery and vein.

Choice D is wrong because structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs are not detected by the nuchal translucency ultrasound.

Structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs are diagnosed by a detailed anatomy scan, which is usually performed in the second trimester of pregnancy.

The normal range for nuchal translucency is between 1 mm and 3 mm.

A measurement above 3 mm is considered increased and may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal or genetic conditions.

However, a nuchal translucency ultrasound is a screening test and not a diagnostic test, so it does not confirm or rule out any condition.

It only provides a probability based on statistical calculations.

Therefore, further testing may be recommended if the nuchal translucency measurement is increased or if other risk factors are present.

There are no known risks or complications for the pregnant person or the fetus.

Prenatal ultrasound is a safe and noninvasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the fetus and the placenta.

It does not use radiation or harm the fetal tissues.

Choice A is wrong because ultrasound does not cause harm to the fetus.

There is no evidence that ultrasound has any adverse effects on fetal development, growth, or health.

Choice C is wrong because pregnant individuals do not need to avoid ultrasound due to potential radiation exposure.

Ultrasound does not involve radiation, unlike x-rays or CT scans.

Choice D is wrong because ultrasound does not lead to miscarriage or preterm labor.

Ultrasound is not associated with any increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, preterm labor, or birth defects.