A nurse is caring for a patient scheduled for a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation.
Which explanations about this test should the nurse provide to the patient?
This test is a screening for spinal defects in the fetus.
This test assesses various markers of fetal well-being.
This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus.
This test assesses fetal lung maturity.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test is a part of what’s often called the “triple screen” that can assess whether a pregnant woman may be at increased risk of carrying a baby with certain disorders, such as neural tube defects (spinal defects) or Down syndrome.
Choice B rationale
While the test can provide information about the risk of certain birth defects, it does not assess various markers of fetal well-being.
Choice C rationale
The test does not identify an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. That would be determined through separate blood tests.
Choice D rationale
The test does not assess fetal lung maturity. Other tests, such as amniocentesis, can provide this information.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Anomalies in fetal chromosomes can be identified through amniocentesis. This test involves the extraction of a small amount of amniotic fluid, which contains fetal tissues. The chromosomes of the fetus can be examined for abnormalities.
Choice B rationale
Cephalopelvic disproportion refers to a condition where the mother’s pelvis is too small to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. This condition cannot be identified through amniocentesis. Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure that examines the amniotic fluid (not the maternal pelvis or the size of the fetus) to detect chromosomal abnormalities and certain genetic disorders.
Choice C rationale
Fetal gender can be determined through amniocentesis. The test can identify the presence of Y chromosomes, which would indicate a male fetus.
Choice D rationale
Rh incompatibility is a condition that occurs when a mother is Rh-negative and the baby is Rh-positive. This condition cannot be identified through amniocentesis. Instead, it is typically identified through blood tests of the mother and father.
Choice E rationale
Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, can be identified through amniocentesis. The test can detect high levels of alpha-fetoprotein, which is often present when a fetus has a neural tube defect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The symptoms described do not typically align with conditions that would be treated with Prescription A. Prescription A might be used for a different set of symptoms or conditions.
Choice B rationale
The presence of small pinpoint open vesicles and pustules on the labia majora with clear drainage, along with a thick, mucopurulent vaginal discharge, could indicate a sexually transmitted infection or other type of infection. Prescription B might be an antibiotic or antiviral medication to treat the suspected infection.
Choice C rationale
The symptoms described do not typically align with conditions that would be treated with Prescription C. Prescription C might be used for a different set of symptoms or conditions.
Choice D rationale
The symptoms described do not typically align with conditions that would be treated with Prescription D. Prescription D might be used for a different set of symptoms or conditions.
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