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
“The patient should have a full bladder for a transabdominal US and an empty bladder for a transvaginal US.”1 This is because a full bladder helps to lift the uterus and improve the visibility of the pelvic organs in a transabdominal US, while an empty bladder prevents distortion of the image in a transvaginal US.
Choice B is wrong because tight-fitting clothing is not necessary and lying prone on an examination table is uncomfortable and may interfere with the insertion of the vaginal probe.
Choice C is wrong because loose-fitting clothing is not necessary and lying supine on an examination table may cause supine hypotension syndrome in pregnant women.
Choice D is wrong because loose-fitting clothing is not necessary and lying prone on an examination table is uncomfortable and may interfere with the insertion of the vaginal probe.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A contraction stress test (CST) is performed near the end of pregnancy to determine how well the fetus will cope with the contractions of childbirth.
The aim is to induce contractions and monitor the fetus to check for heart rate abnormalities using a cardiotocograph.
A normal heartbeat is a good sign that the fetus will be healthy during labor.
Choice B is wrong because a CST does not measure maternal blood pressure.
Choice C is wrong because a CST does not assess placental function directly.
Choice D is wrong because a CST does not measure amniotic fluid volume.
Normal ranges for fetal heart rate are between 110 and 160 beats per minute.
Normal ranges for uterine contractions are between 2 and 5 contractions in 10 minutes, lasting less than 90 seconds each.
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.