A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is scheduled for a cesarean birth based on the fetal lungs having reached maturity. Which of the following findings indicates that the fetal lungs are mature?
Phosphatidylglycerol (PG) absent
Nonstress test is reactive
Lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio of 2:1
Biophysical profile score of 8
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale: The presence of phosphatidylglycerol (PG) in the amniotic fluid is another indicator of fetal lung maturity. The absence of PG is associated with an increased risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in the newborn.
Choice B rationale: A nonstress test is a test performed during pregnancy to evaluate the fetal heart rate in response to fetal movement. It is not directly related to assessing fetal lung maturity.
Choice C rationale: The L/S ratio is an important indicator of fetal lung maturity. Lecithin and sphingomyelin are two surfactants present in the lungs, and the ratio of these two substances increases as the fetal lungs mature. An L/S ratio of 2:1 or greater is considered an indication of lung maturity and suggests that the newborn should be able to breathe adequately after birth.
Choice D rationale: The biophysical profile (BPP) is a prenatal ultrasound assessment of the fetus, which includes evaluating fetal movements, breathing, heart rate, and amniotic fluid volume. While a BPP of 8 is a reassuring score, it does not provide direct information about fetal lung maturity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: The correct term to document this finding is "Quickening." Quickening refers to the first perception of fetal movement by the pregnant woman, usually described as light fluttering or sensation of movement in the abdomen. It is an exciting milestone for pregnant women and often occurs around 18 to 20 weeks of gestation. It is a significant moment as it indicates the woman can feel the baby's movements, signifying the fetus's increasing activity and growth.
Choice B rationale: Ballottement is a physical examination technique used to assess the fetus's position and movement within the amniotic fluid during pregnancy. It involves a gentle tap on the mother's abdomen to feel the fetus bounce or float in the amniotic fluid.
Choice C rationale: Chloasma, also known as the "mask of pregnancy," refers to dark patches of skin that may appear on the face during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It is not related to the sensation of fetal movement.
Choice D rationale: Lightening, also known as "engagement," is the process in late pregnancy when the baby's head descends into the pelvis, preparing for childbirth. It often occurs a few weeks before labor begins and can result in the mother feeling less pressure on her diaphragm, which may make breathing easier. It is not related to the perception of fetal movement described by the client.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A gynaecoid pelvis is considered the most favorable pelvic shape for childbirth and is not a contributing cause of difficult, prolonged labor.
Choice B rationale:
A longitudinal fetal lie (baby's spine aligned with the mother's spine) is a normal and favorable presentation for birth and is not a contributing cause of difficult, prolonged labor.
Choice C rationale:
A persistent occiput posterior position (baby's head facing the mother's abdomen instead of her back) can be a contributing cause of difficult, prolonged labor and may lead to a severe backache for the mother.
Choice D rationale:
Fetal attitude in general flexion (baby's head flexed forward, chin to chest) is a normal and favorable presentation for birth and is not a contributing cause of difficult, prolonged labor.
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