A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a pregnant client.

Which finding would be considered abnormal regarding hCG levels?

The correct answer is choice C. Increased insulin production.Infants with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are at risk for hypoglycemia due to poor nutrient reserves and hyperinsulinism.

Hyperinsulinism is a condition where the pancreas produces too much insulin, which lowers the blood glucose level.Infants with IUGR may have hyperinsulinism because of placental insufficiency, maternal diabetes, or fetal stress.

Choice A is wrong because increased glycogen stores would protect against hypoglycemia, not cause it.

Glycogen is a form of stored glucose that can be broken down when blood glucose level is low.

Choice B is wrong because decreased gluconeogenesis would also protect against hypoglycemia, not cause it.

Gluconeogenesis is a process where the liver makes glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids or lactate.

Choice D is wrong because decreased glucose consumption would also protect against hypoglycemia, not cause it.

Glucose consumption is the rate at which cells use glucose for energy production.

If glucose consumption is low, blood glucose level would be high.

Decreased hCG levels are abnormal regarding hCG levels in pregnancy.hCG is a hormone that plays an important role in pregnancy, and levels can vary widely at this time and between individuals.However, during early pregnancy, hCG levels typically double every two to three days.Low or declining hCG levels can signal a problem with the pregnancy, such as an impending miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Choice B is wrong because unchanged hCG levels are also abnormal regarding hCG levels in pregnancy.

As mentioned above, hCG levels should increase rapidly during the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Choice C is wrong because increased hCG levels are normal regarding hCG levels in pregnancy.Levels of hCG can vary widely from one pregnant woman to another, but they generally peak at around 8 to 14 weeks after conception.

Choice D is wrong because increased prolactin levels are not related to hCG levels in pregnancy.

Prolactin is another hormone that stimulates milk production in the breasts.

Prolactin levels rise during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but they do not affect hCG levels.