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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A is wrong because it describes a transabdominal CVS procedure, which involves a needle instead of a catheter.
Choice C is wrong because it describes a procedure that is not used for CVS.A needle inserted through the cervix could damage the fetal membranes or cause bleeding.
Choice D is wrong because it describes a procedure that is not possible.A catheter cannot be inserted through the abdomen and uterus into the placenta.
Normal ranges for CVS are not applicable as it is a diagnostic test, not a screening test.
It provides a definitive result of whether the fetus has a chromosomal abnormality or a genetic disorder.CVS is usually done between 10 and 13+6 weeks of pregnancy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. The client has a history of placenta previa.
Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers all or part of the cervix, blocking the baby’s exit from the uterus.
This can cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery and increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Therefore, the nurse should report this condition to the provider before performing an amniocentesis.
Choice A is wrong because having Rh-negative blood type is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need an injection of Rh immunoglobulin after the procedure to prevent Rh sensitization.
Choice B is wrong because having a history of preterm labor is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need to be monitored closely for signs of preterm labor after the procedure.
Choice C is wrong because having a history of gestational diabetes is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need to have their blood glucose levels checked before and after the procedure.
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure that involves removing and testing a small sample of amniotic fluid from the uterus for genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome or Patau syndrome.
It can also be used to diagnose fetal infections, treat excess amniotic fluid, or test fetal lung maturity
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