A nurse is reviewing the results of an Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP) with a pregnant client.
What does a low level of AFP (<0.5 MoM) potentially indicate?
Neural tube defect.
Chromosomal abnormality.
Maternal weight-related factors.
Fetal demise.
The Correct Answer is B
A low level of AFP (<0.5 MoM) in a pregnant woman can indicate that the fetus has a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome.
This is because these conditions affect the development of the fetal liver, which produces AFP.
Choice A is wrong because neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, are associated with high levels of AFP (>2.5 MoM) in the maternal blood.
This is because AFP can leak from the open spinal canal of the fetus into the amniotic fluid and then into the maternal blood.
Choice C is wrong because maternal weight-related factors do not affect the level of AFP in the maternal blood.
However, they can affect the interpretation of the AFP test results, as the test needs to be adjusted for maternal weight, age, ethnicity, and gestational age.
Choice D is wrong because fetal demise (death) can also cause high levels of AFP in the maternal blood, as the AFP from the dead fetus can leak into the amniotic fluid and then into the maternal blood.
Normal ranges of AFP in pregnant women vary depending on the gestational age and the method of measurement.
Generally, normal levels of AFP are below 10 ng/ml in nonpregnant adults and below 2.5 MoM in pregnant women.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
An equivocal CST indicates late decelerations of the FHR with less than 50% of contractions.
This means that the fetus may have some degree of hypoxia or distress, but not enough to warrant immediate delivery.
An equivocal CST may also result from hyperstimulation of the uterus, which can cause excessive contractions and reduce blood flow to the placenta.
Choice B is wrong because late decelerations of the FHR with at least 50% of contractions is a positive CST, which indicates a high risk of fetal death due to hypoxia and is a contraindication to labor.
Choice C is wrong because no late decelerations of the FHR during contractions is a negative CST, which indicates a good fetal wellbeing and tolerance of labor.
Choice D is wrong because variable decelerations of the FHR with or without contractions are not related to uterine activity and may indicate cord compression or other fetal problems.
Variable decelerations are not used to interpret CST results.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. Notify the health care provider immediately.
This is because cramping and vaginal bleeding 24 hours after amniocentesis are signs of possible complications, such as injury to the baby or mother, leaking of amniotic fluid, infection, Rh sensitization, preterm labor, or miscarriage.
These complications are rare, but they can be serious and require immediate medical attention.
Choice B is wrong because administering pain medication to the patient does not address the underlying cause of the cramping and bleeding, and may delay seeking help.
Choice C is wrong because encouraging the patient to rest and elevate her legs may not prevent further complications, and may also delay seeking help.
Choice D is wrong because offering emotional support and reassurance to the patient is not enough to ensure the safety of the baby and the mother, and may give a false sense of security.
Normal ranges for amniocentesis are:
No chromosomal defects detected in the fetus and no abnormal proteins present in amniotic fluid
No signs of infection or other illness in the baby
Fetal lungs mature enough for birth if delivery is planned sooner than 39 weeks
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.