A nurse is discussing cardiovascular changes during pregnancy with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
Blood pressure values 10% above pre-pregnancy values
Heart rate increases by 10 to 15 above pre-pregnancy values
Increased blood viscosity
Decreased cardiac workload
The Correct Answer is B
A. Blood pressure typically decreases slightly during the second trimester due to hormonal effects causing vasodilation, and it generally does not rise above pre-pregnancy levels in healthy pregnancies.
B. The heart rate increases by about 10 to 15 beats per minute to meet the increased oxygen demands of the growing fetus and placenta.
C. Blood viscosity does not increase during pregnancy; rather, the plasma volume expands significantly, leading to hemodilution and a decrease in blood viscosity.
D. Cardiac workload increases during pregnancy due to the expanded blood volume and increased cardiac output required to support maternal and fetal needs.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Cycling can be safe during pregnancy if the woman is accustomed to it, as long as she avoids the risk of falling or injury. It is important to take precautions, but cycling itself is not inherently dangerous.
B. Swimming is an excellent form of low-impact exercise during pregnancy and is generally recommended for its cardiovascular benefits and ability to relieve physical discomforts.
C. Racquetball involves rapid movements and potential contact or falls, which could pose a risk to the pregnant woman. This activity should be avoided during pregnancy.
D. Yoga is a safe and beneficial exercise during pregnancy, especially when practicing poses that focus on flexibility, relaxation, and controlled breathing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The lungs are bypassed by the foramen ovale and ductus arteriosus in fetal circulation, not the ductus venosus.
B. The heart is a critical pumping organ, so no blood is diverted away from it in fetal circulation.
C. The kidneys process blood, but fetal blood bypasses the liver via the ductus venosus rather than the kidneys.
D. The ductus venosus allows oxygen-rich blood from the umbilical vein to bypass the liver and flow directly into the inferior vena cava, ensuring that well-oxygenated blood reaches vital fetal organs, such as the brain and heart, more efficiently.
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