A nurse in a college health clinic is speaking to a group of adolescents about toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching as increasing the risk for contracting TSS?

Choice A rationale

Moderate exercise improves circulation. This statement is accurate and should be included in the teaching. Regular moderate exercise during pregnancy can have many benefits, including improved circulation, which can help reduce swelling and varicose veins. It can also help manage weight gain, improve mood and energy levels, reduce pregnancy discomfort, prepare the body for labor, and boost stamina for labor and delivery.

Choice B rationale

Refrain from exercises that include stretching. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. Stretching exercises can be beneficial during pregnancy. They can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, alleviate pregnancy discomfort, and prevent muscle imbalances. However, pregnant women should be careful not to stretch too far, as the hormones produced during pregnancy can make the ligaments more flexible and easier to stretch, increasing the risk of injuries.

Choice C rationale

It is recommended to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. While it’s important for pregnant women to rest and avoid overexertion, there’s no specific recommendation to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. Instead, pregnant women should listen to their bodies and rest as needed.

Choice D rationale

It is recommended to increase your weight-bearing exercises. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. While weight-bearing exercises can be beneficial, they should be done with caution during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid heavy weights and exercises that put pressure on the joints, increase the risk of injury, or cause discomfort. Instead, they should focus on exercises that strengthen the muscles and improve balance and flexibility.

Choice A rationale

Anomalies in fetal chromosomes can be identified through amniocentesis. This test involves the extraction of a small amount of amniotic fluid, which contains fetal tissues. The chromosomes of the fetus can be examined for abnormalities.

Choice B rationale

Cephalopelvic disproportion refers to a condition where the mother’s pelvis is too small to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. This condition cannot be identified through amniocentesis. Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure that examines the amniotic fluid (not the maternal pelvis or the size of the fetus) to detect chromosomal abnormalities and certain genetic disorders.

Choice C rationale

Fetal gender can be determined through amniocentesis. The test can identify the presence of Y chromosomes, which would indicate a male fetus.

Choice D rationale

Rh incompatibility is a condition that occurs when a mother is Rh-negative and the baby is Rh-positive. This condition cannot be identified through amniocentesis. Instead, it is typically identified through blood tests of the mother and father.

Choice E rationale

Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, can be identified through amniocentesis. The test can detect high levels of alpha-fetoprotein, which is often present when a fetus has a neural tube defect.