A nurse is caring for a client who is in preterm labor with a current L/S ratio of 1:1. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale

At 9 weeks gestation, the primary purpose of an ultrasound is to confirm the presence of a fetal heartbeat, which indicates a viable pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

Chromosomal defects are typically assessed using different tests, such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis, rather than an ultrasound at this early stage.

Choice C rationale

Fetal lung maturity cannot be assessed at 9 weeks gestation because the lungs are not yet developed. This assessment is usually done later in pregnancy if preterm delivery is anticipated.

Choice D rationale

The position of the fetus in utero is not a concern at this early stage of pregnancy. Fetal positioning becomes relevant later in pregnancy, closer to delivery.

Choice A rationale

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is involved in the maturation of ovarian follicles and the menstrual cycle. While it is crucial for fertility, it is not directly responsible for maintaining pregnancy once implantation occurs.

Choice B rationale

Progesterone is essential for maintaining pregnancy. It prepares the endometrium for implantation and supports the early stages of pregnancy by preventing uterine contractions that could dislodge the embryo.

Choice C rationale

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) supports the corpus luteum in early pregnancy, ensuring the continued production of progesterone and estrogen. However, implantation failure is less likely due to a lack of HCG.

Choice D rationale

Prolactin plays a role in lactation and has some influence on reproductive health, but it is not primarily responsible for implantation. A lack of prolactin is less likely to be the cause of failed implantation. .