A nurse is caring for a patient scheduled for a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation.
Which explanations about this test should the nurse provide to the patient?
This test is a screening for spinal defects in the fetus.
This test assesses various markers of fetal well-being.
This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus.
This test assesses fetal lung maturity.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test is a part of what’s often called the “triple screen” that can assess whether a pregnant woman may be at increased risk of carrying a baby with certain disorders, such as neural tube defects (spinal defects) or Down syndrome.
Choice B rationale
While the test can provide information about the risk of certain birth defects, it does not assess various markers of fetal well-being.
Choice C rationale
The test does not identify an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. That would be determined through separate blood tests.
Choice D rationale
The test does not assess fetal lung maturity. Other tests, such as amniocentesis, can provide this information.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Feeling the baby move, also known as quickening, is a presumptive sign of pregnancy. Presumptive signs are those that suggest a woman could be pregnant, but they’re not definitive. Quickening is often described as a fluttering sensation and is usually felt between 16 and 25 weeks of gestation.
Choice B rationale
Positive signs of pregnancy are those that can only be explained by pregnancy. These include hearing the baby’s heartbeat, visualizing the fetus on ultrasound, and feeling the baby move by a healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale
Probable signs of pregnancy are those that are strongly suggestive of pregnancy but could be caused by other conditions. These include changes in the uterus, changes in the cervix, and positive pregnancy tests.
Choice D rationale
There is no classification of “possible” signs of pregnancy in medical terminology.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be a normal part of the process as the body changes to accommodate the growing baby. However, severe abdominal pain is not normal and could be a sign of a serious condition such as preterm labor or an ectopic pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
Ballottement refers to a medical sign used in the physical examination of a pregnant woman to detect pregnancy. It involves a quick upward pushing against the uterus and feeling for return impact from the fetus. However, it is not a symptom to report during pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
A sudden gush of fluid from the vagina can be a sign of rupture of membranes, which can lead to premature birth if it occurs before 37 weeks of gestation. This is a critical symptom to report as it may indicate that labor is imminent.
Choice D rationale
Vaginal bleeding can be a sign of several serious conditions in pregnancy such as placenta previa or placental abruption. However, light spotting is common in early pregnancy.
Choice E rationale
Quickening refers to the first movement of the fetus felt by the mother, usually between 18 and 25 weeks of gestation. It is not a symptom to report during pregnancy.
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