A 40-year-old pregnant patient, currently hospitalized for preterm labor at 34 weeks’ gestation, is discussing potential delivery options with her provider based on the results of a fetal lung maturity test.
Which prenatal test would the provider likely order to check for fetal lung maturity?
Amniocentesis
Fetal Fibronectin
Chorionic Villus Sampling
Alpha Fetoprotein
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Amniocentesis is the most reliable and direct method to assess fetal lung maturity. It involves the extraction of a small sample of amniotic fluid from the amniotic sac, which surrounds the fetus in the uterus. This fluid contains various substances, including surfactant, which is a crucial substance produced by the fetal lungs that enables them to expand and function properly after birth.
By analyzing the levels of surfactant and other components in the amniotic fluid, clinicians can accurately determine the maturity of the fetal lungs. This information is essential in guiding decisions about potential delivery options, especially in cases of preterm labor or other complications that may necessitate early delivery.
Amniocentesis is generally considered a safe procedure, but it does carry some small risks, such as infection, bleeding, or amniotic fluid leakage. However, these risks are typically outweighed by the benefits of obtaining accurate information about fetal lung maturity when necessary.
Choice B rationale:
Fetal fibronectin (fFN) is a protein that is found in the amniotic fluid and cervicovaginal secretions. Elevated levels of fFN in cervicovaginal secretions between 22 and 34 weeks of gestation can indicate an increased risk of preterm labor.
However, fFN testing is not a direct measure of fetal lung maturity. It is used primarily as a screening tool to assess the risk of preterm birth, not to determine the readiness of the fetal lungs for delivery.
Choice C rationale:
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a prenatal diagnostic test that involves taking a small sample of chorionic villi, which are tiny finger-like projections of placental tissue. This test is typically performed earlier in pregnancy (between 10 and 13 weeks gestation) to diagnose genetic abnormalities in the fetus.
CVS is not used to assess fetal lung maturity. It does not provide any information about the development of the fetal lungs or their readiness for birth.
Choice D rationale:
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by the fetal liver. Elevated levels of AFP in the maternal blood can indicate an increased risk of certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects.
AFP testing is not used to assess fetal lung maturity. It does not provide any information about the development of the fetal lungs or their readiness for birth.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Fetal lung maturity is not assessed through chorionic villus sampling (CVS). It's primarily evaluated through amniocentesis, a different prenatal diagnostic procedure that involves sampling amniotic fluid.
CVS focuses on placental tissue, not lung development.
It's essential for clients to understand the specific purposes of each prenatal test to make informed decisions and have accurate expectations.
Choice B rationale:
While a non-stress test (NST) might be recommended after CVS in some cases, it's not a routine part of the procedure.
The decision to conduct an NST is based on individual risk factors and assessment by healthcare providers.
It's essential for clients to understand the potential need for additional testing but not assume it's always required.
Choice C rationale:
CVS is considered an invasive procedure, as it involves entering the uterus to collect placental tissue.
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) methods, which analyze fetal DNA in maternal blood, are available for screening purposes.
It's crucial for clients to differentiate between invasive and non-invasive prenatal testing options to make informed choices based on their preferences and risk factors.
Choice D rationale:
This statement accurately reflects the primary purpose of CVS.
It's a diagnostic procedure that can detect various genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and TaySachs disease, during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Understanding the ability to detect genetic abnormalities early in pregnancy allows clients to make informed decisions about their pregnancy management and prepare for potential outcomes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Diagnosing a fetus with a genetic disorder is outside the scope of practice for nurses. This task requires specialized training and expertise in genetics and diagnostic procedures, typically held by physicians such as geneticists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, or genetic counselors.
Nurses play a crucial role in genetic counseling, but their responsibilities focus on:
Educating patients about genetic risks and testing options.
Obtaining informed consent for genetic testing.
Coordinating genetic testing appointments and procedures.
Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and families.
Facilitating communication between patients, families, and other healthcare providers.
Advocating for patients' rights and needs.
Choice B rationale:
Providing emotional support is a core component of nursing care, including genetic counseling. Nurses are trained to provide empathetic and compassionate support to patients and families who are facing the challenges of genetic conditions. This includes:
Active listening and validation of feelings.
Assisting with coping mechanisms and stress management.
Connecting patients with support groups and resources.
Promoting resilience and hope.
Choice C rationale:
Identifying at-risk families is a vital role for nurses in genetic counseling. By recognizing families with a history of genetic disorders or those who exhibit risk factors, nurses can initiate early intervention and preventive measures. This includes:
Taking a thorough family history.
Assessing risk factors and potential genetic concerns.
Educating families about their potential risks.
Referring families for genetic counseling and testing as appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
Collaboration with other healthcare providers and referral for specialized care are essential aspects of genetic counseling. Nurses often work within interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care for patients with genetic concerns. This includes:
Communicating with geneticists, genetic counselors, and other specialists.
Coordinating referrals for genetic testing, counseling, and treatment.
Ensuring continuity of care across different healthcare settings.
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