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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice a. Excessive uterine enlargement.
Choice A rationale:
Hydatidiform mole, also known as a molar pregnancy, often presents with excessive uterine enlargement. This is due to the abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue, which can cause the uterus to be larger than expected for gestational age.
Choice B rationale:
An irregular fetal heart rate is not typically associated with a hydatidiform mole because there is usually no viable fetus present in this condition.
Choice C rationale:
A rapid decline in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels is not expected. Instead, hCG levels are usually abnormally high due to the trophoblastic tissue proliferation.
Choice D rationale:
Profuse, clear vaginal discharge is not a characteristic finding of a hydatidiform mole. Instead, vaginal bleeding or discharge that may be brownish and resemble prune juice is more common.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. However, it is not the primary hormone that triggers ovulation.
Choice B rationale
Progesterone is a hormone that prepares the uterus for pregnancy after ovulation. It does not trigger ovulation.
Choice C rationale
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is the hormone that triggers ovulation. A surge in LH levels causes the mature follicle in the ovary to burst and release an egg.
Choice D rationale
Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances involved in pain and inflammation. They do not trigger ovulation.
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