A fully matured endometrium that resembles the thickness of heavy, soft velvet describes which phase of the endometrial cycle?
Secretory.
Ischemic.
Menstrual.
Proliferative.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The secretory phase, occurring after ovulation, is characterized by the actions of progesterone, primarily from the corpus luteum. This hormone induces significant endometrial glandular development and increased vascularity, leading to a thickened, nutrient-rich endometrium. The "heavy, soft velvet" description accurately reflects this preparation for potential embryo implantation, with glycogen-rich secretions accumulating in the glands.
Choice B rationale
The ischemic phase is a brief period preceding menstruation, marked by a decline in progesterone and estrogen. This hormonal withdrawal leads to vasoconstriction of the spiral arteries, causing tissue hypoxia and necrosis of the functional layer of the endometrium. It does not involve endometrial thickening or a "velvet" texture; rather, it sets the stage for shedding.
Choice C rationale
The menstrual phase involves the shedding of the functional layer of the endometrium due to the collapse of the spiral arteries and subsequent tissue breakdown. This phase is characterized by bleeding and the expulsion of endometrial debris, resulting in a thin and denuded uterine lining, distinctly not resembling a thick, velvety texture.
Choice D rationale
The proliferative phase, under the influence of estrogen, involves the regeneration and regrowth of the functional layer of the endometrium after menstruation. Endometrial glands and stroma proliferate, increasing endometrial thickness. However, this phase typically results in a smoother, less developed lining compared to the highly vascularized and secretory "velvet" appearance of the secretory phase.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
IUDs provide highly effective contraception but offer no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). They are inserted into the uterus and do not create a physical barrier or contain antimicrobial properties that would prevent the transmission of infectious agents during sexual activity.
Choice B rationale
Copper-containing IUDs (e.g., Paragard) can be used as an effective form of emergency contraception if inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse. The copper ions create a spermicidal and inflammatory reaction in the uterus, preventing fertilization or implantation, thus offering a non-hormonal emergency option.
Choice C rationale
While IUDs themselves do not cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), there is a slightly increased risk of PID in the first few weeks after insertion, primarily due to the introduction of bacteria from the vagina or cervix into the sterile uterine cavity. This risk decreases significantly after this initial period.
Choice D rationale
The duration of protection varies significantly among different types of IUDs. For example, the copper IUD (Paragard) can be effective for up to 10 years, while hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena) offer protection for 5 to 8 years, depending on the specific device. Not all IUDs provide eight years of protection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pregnancy is the most common cause of secondary amenorrhea, especially in a sexually active woman experiencing a sudden cessation of menstruation for eight weeks. A positive pregnancy test indicates the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced by the developing placenta, which is the biological marker for pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
While excessive exercise can cause amenorrhea due to disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and low energy availability, it is a less common and usually chronic cause compared to pregnancy, especially when the amenorrhea is recent in onset. This would be a secondary consideration after ruling out pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
Endocrine disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction, or hyperprolactinemia can lead to amenorrhea by interfering with hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. However, these are generally less frequent causes of acute amenorrhea than pregnancy and often present with other associated symptoms.
Choice D rationale
An ultrasound of the uterus can identify structural abnormalities or other gynecological conditions contributing to amenorrhea, such as Asherman's syndrome or uterine fibroids. However, for an acute presentation of amenorrhea, a pregnancy test is a more immediate and less invasive diagnostic tool to rule out the most common cause first.
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