A client’s maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein level is elevated at 17 weeks.
What condition should the nurse identify as the likely cause of this increase?
Multiple gestation.
Fetal hypoxia.
Down syndrome.
Neural tube defect.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While multiple gestation can cause an increase in maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MS-AFP) levels, it is not the most likely cause of an elevated MS-AFP level at 17 weeks.
Choice B rationale
Fetal hypoxia, or lack of oxygen to the fetus, is not typically associated with an increase in MSAFP levels.
Choice C rationale
Down syndrome is typically associated with lower, not higher, levels of MS-AFP891011.
Choice D rationale
An elevated level of MS-AFP at 17 weeks is most commonly associated with a neural tube defect. Neural tube defects are birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that occur during the first month of pregnancy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Immediately after delivery, the breasts of a new mother are not likely to remain the same as before delivery. Hormonal changes during pregnancy prepare the breasts for lactation, and these changes do not typically revert immediately after delivery.
Choice B rationale
On the first postpartum day, the breasts of a new mother are most likely to be filling and secreting colostrum. Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands, and it usually starts to be produced during pregnancy and continues during the early days of breastfeeding.
Choice C rationale
An immediate let-down response is not typically observed on the first postpartum day. The letdown reflex, which releases milk from the breast, usually becomes more pronounced after the first few days of breastfeeding.
Choice D rationale
While the breasts may become larger due to milk production, they are not typically very tender to touch on the first postpartum day. Tenderness may occur later, especially if complications like engorgement or mastitis develop.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While multiple gestation can cause an increase in maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MS-AFP) levels, it is not the most likely cause of an elevated MS-AFP level at 17 weeks.
Choice B rationale
Fetal hypoxia, or lack of oxygen to the fetus, is not typically associated with an increase in MSAFP levels.
Choice C rationale
Down syndrome is typically associated with lower, not higher, levels of MS-AFP891011.
Choice D rationale
An elevated level of MS-AFP at 17 weeks is most commonly associated with a neural tube defect. Neural tube defects are birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that occur during the first month of pregnancy.
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.