A nurse is assisting with teaching a class on prenatal development. The nurse should instruct that advanced maternal age increases the risk for which of the following conditions?
Asthma
Spina bifida
Down syndrome
Facial malformation
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason : Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing due to airway inflammation and constriction. While genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of asthma, there is no direct correlation between advanced maternal age and an increased risk of asthma in offspring. Asthma's etiology is multifactorial and more closely related to family history, exposure to allergens, and respiratory infections during early childhood.
Choice B reason : Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don't form properly. It's associated with factors such as folic acid deficiency during early pregnancy, certain medications, diabetes, and obesity. Although advanced maternal age may slightly increase the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, it is not considered a significant risk factor for spina bifida. Adequate intake of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy is the most effective prevention strategy.
Choice C reason : Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21). The risk of conceiving a child with Down syndrome increases with maternal age, particularly after age 35. This is due to the higher likelihood of nondisjunction events during cell division in older eggs, leading to an abnormal number of chromosomes. Advanced maternal age is a well-established risk factor for Down syndrome, and prenatal screening is recommended to assess the risk.
Choice D reason : Facial malformations, such as cleft lip or palate, are congenital anomalies that can affect the appearance and function of a child's face. These conditions are influenced by genetic and environmental factors, including certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, and exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy. While advanced maternal age may contribute to an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, it is not specifically linked to an increased risk of isolated facial malformations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : Prolonged stress can lead to impaired immune function. When a person is stressed, the body's stress response can suppress the immune system, making it less effective at fighting off infections. This is because stress hormones like cortisol can inhibit the production and function of white blood cells, such as lymphocytes, which are crucial for the immune response. Additionally, chronic stress can lead to inflammation and reduce the body's ability to respond to immunological challenges, increasing the risk of illness and infection.
Choice B reason : Decreased blood pressure is not typically a manifestation of prolonged stress. In fact, stress can lead to increased blood pressure due to the release of stress hormones that cause vasoconstriction and an increase in heart rate. Over time, this can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular problems.
Choice C reason : Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not a direct manifestation of prolonged stress. However, stress can affect blood sugar levels. For individuals with diabetes, stress can make it harder to control blood sugar as stress hormones can cause blood sugar levels to rise. In non-diabetic individuals, stress typically does not cause hypoglycemia.
Choice D reason : Anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, is not a direct result of prolonged stress. Anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, or genetic conditions, but it is not commonly linked to stress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is: a. Decrease in body fat
Choice A: Decrease in body fat
Older adults typically experience a decrease in lean body mass and an increase in body fat percentage. However, the absolute amount of body fat may decrease due to overall weight loss and muscle mass reduction.
Choice B: Increase in muscle mass
This statement is incorrect because muscle mass generally decreases with age due to sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and strength.
Choice C: Increase in gag reflex
This statement is incorrect because the gag reflex often diminishes with age. Older adults may experience a reduced gag reflex due to decreased sensitivity and muscle tone.
Choice D: Decrease in systolic blood pressure
This statement is incorrect because systolic blood pressure usually increases with age due to arterial stiffness and other cardiovascular changes.
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