A nurse is evaluating a patient in her third trimester of pregnancy.
Which findings should the nurse recognize as expected physiological changes during pregnancy?
Gradual lordosis.
Decreased mobility of pelvic joints.
Increased abdominal muscle tone.
Posterior neck flexion.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Gradual lordosis, or the inward curvature of the spine, is a common physiological change during pregnancy. As the baby grows and the woman’s center of gravity shifts, the spine adjusts to maintain balance.
Choice B rationale
Decreased mobility of pelvic joints is not a typical physiological change during pregnancy. In fact, the body releases the hormone relaxin during pregnancy, which allows the ligaments in the pelvic area to relax and the joints to become looser in preparation for the birth process.
Choice C rationale
Increased abdominal muscle tone is not a typical physiological change during pregnancy. In fact, as the baby grows, the abdominal muscles stretch and can even separate, a condition known as diastasis recti.
Choice D rationale
Posterior neck flexion is not a typical physiological change during pregnancy.
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Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale
Facial edema, or swelling, can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure. It is important for pregnant women to seek medical attention if they notice sudden or severe swelling in their face, hands, or fingers.
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