A client’s maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein level is elevated at 17 weeks.
What condition should the nurse identify as the likely cause of this increase?
Multiple gestation.
Fetal hypoxia.
Down syndrome.
Neural tube defect.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While multiple gestation can cause an increase in maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MS-AFP) levels, it is not the most likely cause of an elevated MS-AFP level at 17 weeks.
Choice B rationale
Fetal hypoxia, or lack of oxygen to the fetus, is not typically associated with an increase in MSAFP levels.
Choice C rationale
Down syndrome is typically associated with lower, not higher, levels of MS-AFP891011.
Choice D rationale
An elevated level of MS-AFP at 17 weeks is most commonly associated with a neural tube defect. Neural tube defects are birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that occur during the first month of pregnancy.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. While it can have serious implications for the mother and baby, it is not directly linked to the development of spina bifida occulta in the newborn.
Choice B rationale
Tobacco use during pregnancy can lead to several complications, including low birth weight, preterm birth, and certain birth defects. However, it is not identified as a significant risk factor for spina bifida occulta.
Choice C rationale
Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy is a well-known risk factor for neural tube defects, including spina bifida. Spina bifida occulta is a mild form of spina bifida caused by a gap forming between the vertebrae in the spinal cord during fetal development. Adequate intake of folic acid, especially during the early stages of pregnancy, can help prevent such defects.
Choice D rationale
Short interval pregnancy refers to pregnancies that are closely spaced. While they can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight, they are not directly associated with an increased risk of spina bifida occulta.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While using gestures with 1 to 2 word sentences is a developmental milestone, it is typically seen in younger children, around the age of 212.
Choice B rationale
Using 1 word sentences is a developmental milestone usually achieved by children around the age of 112. By the age of 3, children are typically able to speak in simple sentences with four or more words.
Choice C rationale
Speaking in simple sentences with four or more words is a typical developmental milestone for a 3-year-old child. They are able to express their thoughts more clearly and engage in conversations.
Choice D rationale
Recognizing most letters and numbers is a skill that is typically developed around the age of 4 or 512. Therefore, expecting a 3-year-old child to recognize most letters and numbers might be too advanced for their developmental stage.
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