A nurse is caring for a pregnant client who is experiencing leg cramps.
These cramps are primarily caused by:.
Increased joint laxity.
Increased spinal curvature.
Increased muscle strain.
Decreased muscle strength.
The Correct Answer is C
Leg cramps are painful muscle contractions that typically affect the calf, foot or both.
They are common during pregnancy, often happening at night during the second and third trimesters.
While the exact cause of leg cramps during pregnancy isn’t clear, various theories point to the following causes of leg cramps during pregnancy: 2
Pregnancy fatigue from carrying the extra baby weight
Compression of the blood vessels in the legs
Diet (an excess of phosphorus and a shortage of calcium or magnesium)
Pregnancy hormones since they seem to cause so many pregnancy aches and pains
Choice A is wrong because increased joint laxity is not a cause of leg cramps, but rather a result of hormonal changes that relax the ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth.
Choice B is wrong because increased spinal curvature is not a cause of leg cramps, but rather a result of the changing center of gravity and posture during pregnancy.
Choice D is wrong because decreased muscle strength is not a cause of leg cramps, but rather a consequence of muscle fatigue and weight gain during pregnancy.
Normal ranges for calcium are 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL, for magnesium are 1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL, and for phosphorus are 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Back pain is a common symptom experienced due to increased muscle strain during pregnancy.
As the uterus grows and the center of gravity shifts, there is more pressure on the lower back muscles and ligaments.
This can cause pain, difficulty with balance, and reduced activity.
Choice A is wrong because leg cramps are not caused by muscle strain, but by other factors such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or compression of blood vessels.
Choice C is wrong because pelvic pain is not a typical symptom of musculoskeletal changes during pregnancy.
Pelvic pain can be caused by other conditions such as urinary tract infection, preterm labor, or pelvic girdle pain.
Choice D is wrong because carpal tunnel syndrome is not a result of muscle strain, but of fluid retention and swelling that compresses the median nerve in the wrist.
This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the hand and fingers.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Progesterone is responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum and stimulating fetal growth.
Progesterone also prevents miscarriage by relaxing the uterus and maintaining the endometrium.
Choice B is wrong because estrogen is not responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum or stimulating fetal growth.
Estrogen helps develop the female sexual traits and supports the growth of the uterus and placenta.
Choice C is wrong because thyroid hormones are not responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum or stimulating fetal growth.
Thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism and energy levels of the mother and the fetus.
Choice D is wrong because prolactin is not responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum or stimulating fetal growth.
Prolactin stimulates milk production in the breasts after delivery.
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