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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

. The client’s cervix is dilated.

This indicates that the client may be in preterm labor, which is a contraindication for amniocentesis.

Amniocentesis is a procedure that involves inserting a needle into the amniotic sac to obtain a sample of amniotic fluid for genetic testing or other purposes.

It is usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation.

Choice A is wrong because the client’s bladder should be full for amniocentesis.

This helps to push the uterus upward and away from the bladder, reducing the risk of injury and making it easier to visualize the fetus and the needle.

Choice B is wrong because the client’s uterus should be above the symphysis pubis at 16 weeks of gestation.

This is a normal finding and does not affect the procedure.

Choice D is wrong because the client’s fundal height should measure around 16 cm at 16 weeks of gestation.

A fundal height of 20 cm may indicate a large for gestational age fetus, multiple gestation, or polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid), but these are not absolute contraindications for amniocentesis.

However, they may require further evaluation and adjustment of the technique.

A. Drink several glasses of water. B. Empty her bladder completely. C. Lie on her right side D. Fast for at least 4 hours.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The woman should drink several glasses of water before the abdominal ultrasound procedure.

This is because a full bladder helps to push the intestines away and improve the visibility of the uterus and the fetus.

Drinking water also helps to avoid gas buildup in the abdomen, which could interfere with the sound waves.

Choice B is wrong because emptying the bladder would make it harder to see the uterus and the fetus.

Choice C is wrong because lying on the right side would not affect the quality of the ultrasound image.

Choice D is wrong because fasting is not necessary for an abdominal ultrasound, unless instructed by the doctor for a specific reason.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for an amniocentesis at 16 weeks gestation. Which of the following should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is performing an abdominal ultrasound for a client who is at 28 weeks of gestation. The nurse should instruct the client to do which of the following before the procedure?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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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?