A nurse is collecting data from a client who is at 16 weeks of gestation and tells the nurse that she felt light fluttering in her stomach the prior day.
The nurse should use which of the following terms to document this finding?
Quickening.
Lightening.
Braxton Hicks contractions.
Chloasma.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Quickening is the term used to describe the first noticeable fetal movements felt by the pregnant person. It is often described as a fluttering or bubbling sensation in the lower abdomen.
Quickening typically occurs between 16 and 22 weeks of gestation, with an average of 18 weeks. It is a normal and reassuring sign that the pregnancy is progressing well.
The sensation of quickening is caused by the fetus moving its arms and legs, as well as by its body turning and rotating within the amniotic fluid.
It is important to note that not all pregnant women experience quickening at the same time, and some women may not feel it at all.
However, in this case, the client is at 16 weeks of gestation, which is within the typical timeframe for quickening to occur. Moreover, the client's description of "light fluttering in her stomach" is consistent with the sensation of quickening.
Choice B rationale:
Lightening is the term used to describe the descent of the fetus into the pelvis in preparation for labor.
It typically occurs in the last few weeks of pregnancy, and is often accompanied by a feeling of increased pressure in the pelvis and bladder.
The client in this question is only at 16 weeks of gestation, so it is too early for lightening to have occurred.
Choice C rationale:
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, painless contractions of the uterus that can occur throughout pregnancy.
They are often described as a tightening or hardening of the uterus, and they may come and go over a period of several hours. Braxton Hicks contractions are not a sign of labor, but they can sometimes be mistaken for it.
The client in this question did not describe any contractions, so Braxton Hicks contractions are not a likely explanation for her symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Chloasma is a skin condition that is characterized by brown patches on the face.
It is also known as the "mask of pregnancy" because it is more common in pregnant women. Chloasma is caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, and it typically fades after delivery.
The client in this question did not describe any skin changes, so chloasma is not a likely explanation for her symptoms
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A:
The umbilicus is typically the location of the fundus at around 20 weeks of gestation, not 22 weeks.
If the fundus is at the umbilicus at 22 weeks, it could indicate that the fetus is not growing at the expected rate. This would warrant further investigation, such as an ultrasound, to assess fetal growth and development.
Choice C:
3 cm below the umbilicus is too low for a 22-week gestation.
This would suggest that the fetus is smaller than expected for the gestational age.
Possible causes of this include incorrect dating of the pregnancy, fetal growth restriction, or oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid).
Choice D:
5 cm above the umbilicus is too high for a 22-week gestation.
This could indicate that the woman is carrying multiples, has polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid), or that the fetus is larger than expected for the gestational age (macrosomia).
Importance of Fundal Height Measurement:
Fundal height measurement is a simple, non-invasive way to assess fetal growth and development during pregnancy. It is typically measured at each prenatal appointment, starting at around 20 weeks of gestation.
By tracking the fundal height over time, healthcare providers can identify potential problems with fetal growth and make necessary interventions.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A:
Mood swings are a common and expected symptom of early pregnancy due to hormonal changes. They typically do not require medical attention unless they become severe or interfere with daily life.
While it's important to discuss mood swings with a healthcare provider, they are not considered a critical symptom that necessitates immediate action.
Choice C:
Urinary frequency, or the need to urinate more often, is also a common symptom of early pregnancy. It's caused by hormonal changes and the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder.
While it can be inconvenient, it's typically not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain or burning during urination.
Choice D:
Decreased energy, or fatigue, is another common and expected symptom of early pregnancy.
It's often caused by hormonal changes and the body's increased workload to support the growing fetus.
While it can be frustrating, it's typically not a cause for concern unless it becomes severe or interferes with daily life.
Choice B:
Facial edema, or swelling of the face, is not a common symptom of early pregnancy.
It can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Preeclampsia can develop suddenly and progress quickly, so it's important to seek medical attention right away if facial edema occurs.
Key Points:
Facial edema is a potential sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.
Mood swings, urinary frequency, and decreased energy are common and expected symptoms of early pregnancy that typically do not require immediate medical attention.
It's important for pregnant women to be aware of potential warning signs and to seek medical advice promptly if they experience any concerning symptoms.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.