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
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The nurse should include in the teaching that a client who is 23 weeks pregnant can receive an influenza vaccination during pregnancy. This is because the influenza vaccine is safe and recommended for pregnant women to protect both the mother and the baby from the flu.
Choice B rationale
The rubella vaccine is a live vaccine and is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to the potential risk to the baby. However, it can be given immediately after delivery if the woman is not immune.
Choice C rationale
The varicella vaccine is also a live vaccine and is not recommended during pregnancy. It should be given before pregnancy or immediately after delivery if the woman is not immune.
Choice D rationale
The Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) vaccine is actually recommended during each pregnancy, regardless of the patient’s previous history of receiving the vaccine. The optimal timing for Tdap administration is between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation.
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.
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