A nurse is educating a pregnant client about the Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP).
What should the nurse include as a reason why AFP results are reported as multiples of the median (MoM)?
To compare the measured level of AFP to the expected level for a given gestational age.
To differentiate between neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities.
To assess the risk of fetal demise or multiple gestation.
To account for factors such as maternal weight and race.
The Correct Answer is A
This is because AFP levels vary according to the gestational age of the fetus, and reporting them as multiples of the median (MoM) allows for a standardized comparison.
Choice B is wrong because AFP results do not differentiate between neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities.
They only indicate an increased risk for these conditions, which need further testing to confirm.
Choice C is wrong because AFP results do not assess the risk of fetal demise or multiple gestation.
They only measure the amount of AFP in the maternal blood, which can be affected by various factors such as maternal weight, race, diabetes, and fetal anomalies.
Choice D is wrong because AFP results are reported as MoM regardless of factors such as maternal weight and race.
These factors are taken into account when calculating the MoM value, which adjusts for the expected variation in AFP levels among different populations.
Normal ranges for AFP MoM vary depending on the laboratory and the method used, but generally they are between 0.5 and 2.52.
Values above or below this range may indicate an increased risk for certain fetal conditions or complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because a nuchal translucency ultrasound measures the amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck in the first trimester of pregnancy, which can indicate the risk of having a chromosomal condition like Down syndrome.
Some possible explanations for the other choices are:
Choice A is wrong because fetal growth and development are not directly related to the nuchal translucency measurement.
Fetal growth and development are assessed by other parameters such as crown-rump length, biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference, etc.
Choice B is wrong because blood flow in the umbilical cord is not measured by the nuchal translucency ultrasound.
Blood flow in the umbilical cord is assessed by Doppler ultrasound, which evaluates the resistance and velocity of blood flow in the umbilical artery and vein.
Choice D is wrong because structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs are not detected by the nuchal translucency ultrasound.
Structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs are diagnosed by a detailed anatomy scan, which is usually performed in the second trimester of pregnancy.
The normal range for nuchal translucency is between 1 mm and 3 mm.
A measurement above 3 mm is considered increased and may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal or genetic conditions.
However, a nuchal translucency ultrasound is a screening test and not a diagnostic test, so it does not confirm or rule out any condition.
It only provides a probability based on statistical calculations.
Therefore, further testing may be recommended if the nuchal translucency measurement is increased or if other risk factors are present.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The patient should wear loose-fitting clothing and lie supine on an examination table.
This is because loose-fitting clothing allows easy access to the abdomen and lying supine helps relax the abdominal muscles.
The patient should also avoid food and drinks for 8 to 12 hours before the test, as undigested food can interfere with the sound waves and affect the image quality.
Choice A is wrong because a full bladder is not necessary for an abdominal ultrasound, unless the patient is pregnant or has a pelvic condition.
A transvaginal ultrasound is a different type of ultrasound that uses a probe inserted into the vagina to examine the reproductive organs.
Choice B is wrong because tight-fitting clothing can restrict the movement of the ultrasound probe and make it harder to get a clear image.
Lying prone (on the stomach) can also tense up the abdominal muscles and obscure the organs.
Choice D is wrong because lying prone can have the same disadvantages as choice B. Additionally, wearing loose-fitting clothing does not mean that the patient can eat or drink anything before the test, as this can affect the results.
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