A nurse is explaining the purpose of an Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP) to a pregnant client.
What is the test primarily used for ?
Screening for neural tube defects.
Assessing placental function.
Determining fetal gender
Diagnosing chromosomal abnormalities
The Correct Answer is A
An alpha-fetoprotein test (AFP) is a blood test that measures the amount of AFP present in blood.
It’s usually part of what’s called a triple screen or quad screen in the second trimester of pregnancy.
The yolk sac, GI tract, and liver of an unborn baby produce AFP.
It then circulates through the fetal and maternal blood.
High levels of AFP in pregnant people can indicate that the baby has a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida or anencephaly.
Choice B is wrong because assessing placental function is not the primary purpose of an AFP test.
However, low levels of AFP can indicate problems with the placenta or the baby’s growth.
Choice C is wrong because determining fetal gender is not the primary purpose of an AFP test.
However, some genetic tests that use a sample of the baby’s DNA from the pregnant person’s blood can reveal the baby’s sex as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Choice D is wrong because diagnosing chromosomal abnormalities is not the primary purpose of an AFP test.
However, an AFP test is usually part of a quad screen that also tests for other markers that can indicate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
“I will have sensors placed on my abdomen to monitor the FHR and uterine contractions.” This statement indicates the client understands the test procedure of a CST, which is a test that triggers contractions and registers how the baby’s heart reacts.
The test is done by placing two sensor belts around the abdomen, one to measure the baby’s heartbeat and the other to measure contractions.
The client may receive oxytocin through an IV to induce contractions.
Choice B is wrong because the client does not need to fast for 24 hours before the test.
There is no evidence that fasting is required for a CST.
Choice C is wrong because the client will not be sedated during the test.
Sedation is not necessary for a CST and may interfere with the results.
Choice D is wrong because the client does not need to drink plenty of fluids before the test.
There is no evidence that drinking fluids is required for a CST.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
AFP is a screening tool that can indicate the possibility of certain fetal anomalies, such as neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects, or chromosomal abnormalities.
However, AFP results are not diagnostic and cannot confirm the presence or absence of these conditions.
Therefore, further tests, such as ultrasound or amniocentesis, are needed to verify the results.
Choice A is wrong because AFP results are not diagnostic for fetal anomalies.
They only indicate a risk level that needs to be confirmed by other tests.
Choice C is wrong because AFP results can detect not only neural tube defects, but also other fetal anomalies, such as abdominal wall defects or chromosomal abnormalities.
Choice D is wrong because AFP results are not affected by maternal race and ethnicity.
They are affected by maternal age, weight, diabetes, multiple gestation, and gestational age.
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