A nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of a vaginal fistula.
The client states, "I don't understand how I got this.”. Which of the following is a potential cause of a vaginal fistula?

Choice A rationale

Placenta formation begins shortly after implantation, but it continues to develop throughout the first trimester and into the early second trimester, making it less precise to attribute the first 8 weeks solely to this process.

Choice B rationale

Fertilization occurs within the first week after ovulation, marking the beginning of pregnancy, but it is a singular event that happens prior to the developmental processes vulnerable to teratogens.

Choice C rationale

Organogenesis is the critical period during which the major organs and structures of the fetus form, typically occurring between the third and eighth weeks of gestation. This is the time when the fetus is most susceptible to the effects of teratogens, which can cause congenital anomalies.

Choice D rationale

Implantation occurs approximately 6-10 days after fertilization, embedding the blastocyst into the uterine lining. While crucial, it is not the primary period when teratogenic effects are most significant, as this happens during organogenesis.

Choice A rationale

Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that accelerates fetal lung maturity by increasing the production of surfactant, which reduces respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.

Choice B rationale

While betamethasone can cause transient increases in fetal heart rate, its primary purpose is not to increase fetal heart rate. Its role is in enhancing lung maturity.

Choice C rationale

Betamethasone does not directly increase amniotic fluid levels. Its main function is in the maturation of fetal lungs.

Choice D rationale

Betamethasone is not used to stop preterm labor contractions. It is used to accelerate fetal lung development in preterm labor cases.