After the delivery of the placenta, a nurse in labor and delivery examines the umbilical cord.
Which of the following vessels should the nurse expect to observe in the umbilical cord?

Choice A rationale

It is not recommended to increase weight-bearing exercises during pregnancy. Weight-bearing exercises can put additional stress on the joints, which are already under strain due to the increased weight and changes in body shape during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

It is not necessary to refrain from exercises that include stretching during pregnancy. In fact, gentle stretching can be beneficial to help alleviate some common discomforts of pregnancy such as backache and leg cramps.

Choice C rationale

Moderate exercise does improve circulation. Improved circulation can help reduce swelling, varicose veins, and feelings of fatigue, which are common during pregnancy.

Choice D rationale

It is not necessary to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. However, pregnant women should listen to their bodies and rest if they feel tired.

Choice A rationale

Magnesium sulfate is used in preterm labor to suppress contractions and delay the birth of a preterm baby. It works by lowering the amount of calcium in the uterine muscles, which in turn encourages muscle relaxation. This effect can help slow or inhibit contractions, allowing more time for the administration of corticosteroids before birth. Corticosteroids can improve a baby’s lung function and reduce the risk of dying by 40 percent if given within 48 hours. Therefore, magnesium sulfate is used to stop preterm labor contractions.

Choice B rationale

Magnesium sulfate does not directly increase the fetal heart rate. Its primary role in the context of preterm labor is to inhibit contractions.

Choice C rationale

While magnesium sulfate is used in the context of preterm labor, it does not directly promote fetal lung maturity. However, by delaying delivery, it allows more time for the administration of corticosteroids, which can enhance the baby’s lung function.

Choice D rationale

While magnesium sulfate can have a muscle-relaxing effect, its primary use in the context of preterm labor is not to promote relaxation or alleviate anxiety in the mother. Its main role is to inhibit uterine contractions.