The nurse instructs a pregnant client that the purpose of an amniocentesis at 36 weeks gestation is for:

Choice A rationale

Quickening, the first movements of the fetus felt by the mother, typically occurs between 18-20 weeks gestation. At 18 weeks, it's likely the mother will feel a fluttering sensation soon.

Choice B rationale

While fetal movements can sometimes be felt later, it's generally expected that by 18-20 weeks, movements should be noticeable.

Choice C rationale

The baby does move at 18 weeks, but the mother typically begins to feel these movements at this stage, known as quickening.

Choice D rationale

Suggesting the mother should have felt movement by now could cause unnecessary anxiety. Most women feel their baby's movements between 18-20 weeks. .

Choice A rationale

Increasing folic acid intake immediately is recommended because it helps prevent neural tube defects, which can occur very early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant.

Choice B rationale

Starting folic acid intake one week before her period is not sufficient. Folic acid needs to be taken consistently before conception and during early pregnancy to be effective.

Choice C rationale

Waiting until pregnancy is confirmed may be too late to prevent neural tube defects, which form in the early weeks of pregnancy.

Choice D rationale

If she misses her period, it might already be too late to prevent neural tube defects. Consistent intake of folic acid before and during early pregnancy is essential.