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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?

A.

This test is a screening for spinal defects in the fetus.

B.

This test assesses various markers of fetal well-being.

C.

This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus.

D.

This test assesses fetal lung maturity.

Answer and Explanation

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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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

A cough and fever in a client at 38 weeks of gestation could indicate an infection, which should be addressed promptly. However, it is not as immediately life-threatening as painless vaginal bleeding at 28 weeks of gestation, which could indicate a serious complication such as placental abruption.

Choice B rationale

Nausea and vomiting at 14 weeks of gestation are common symptoms of early pregnancy and, while uncomfortable, are not usually a sign of a serious problem. This client should be seen, but not before a client with a potentially life-threatening condition like painless vaginal bleeding.

Choice C rationale

Painless vaginal bleeding at 28 weeks of gestation is a serious symptom that could indicate placental abruption, a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterus, which can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. This client should be seen first.

Choice D rationale

Vaginal spotting in a client who has missed a period could indicate early pregnancy or a number of other conditions. While this client should be seen to confirm the cause of the spotting, it is not as immediately urgent as painless vaginal bleeding at 28 weeks of gestation.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Based on your last menstrual period (LMP) of May 4, 2022, your estimated date of delivery (EDD) would be around February 11, 2023."

Rationale:

  • Calculating the Estimated Date of Delivery (EDD): The EDD can be calculated using Naegele's Rule, which is a standard method used to estimate the due date. The rule involves subtracting three months from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP), adding seven days, and adjusting the year if necessary.

  • Application of Naegele’s Rule:

    • Start with the first day of the LMP: May 4, 2022.
    • Subtract three months: February 4, 2022.
    • Add seven days: February 11, 2022.
    • Since the year needs to be adjusted, the EDD is February 11, 2023.

Key Points:

  • Naegele’s Rule is commonly used but assumes a 28-day menstrual cycle and ovulation on the 14th day. Variations in cycle length can affect the accuracy.

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