A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is 15 weeks pregnant about to undergo amniocentesis. This test can identify which traits or problems? Select all that apply.
Rh incompatibility.
Neural tube defects.
Fetal gender.
Cephalopelvic disproportion.
Chromosomal defects.
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Choice A:
Rh incompatibility is not directly identified through amniocentesis. Instead, it's typically assessed through blood tests that determine a woman's Rh factor and screen for Rh antibodies.
However, amniocentesis can provide information that might be relevant to Rh incompatibility, such as the fetal Rh type. If the mother is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive, there's a risk of Rh incompatibility.
Choice B:
Amniocentesis can detect neural tube defects (NTDs) like spina bifida and anencephaly.
It does this by measuring the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the amniotic fluid. AFP is a protein produced by the fetal liver, and elevated levels in the amniotic fluid can indicate an NTD.
Choice C:
Amniocentesis can accurately determine the fetal gender by examining the sex chromosomes present in the cells of the amniotic fluid.
Choice D:
Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) is a condition where the baby's head is too large to fit through the mother's pelvis. It's not diagnosed through amniocentesis.
CPD is usually suspected based on clinical findings like a slow progression of labor or a high fetal station, and it might be confirmed with imaging techniques like X-ray or ultrasound.
Choice E:
Amniocentesis is a valuable tool for diagnosing chromosomal defects, such as Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, and Trisomy 13. It does this by analyzing the chromosomes of the fetal cells present in the amniotic fluid.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A:
While fetal maturity is a factor in the timing of amniocentesis, it's not the primary reason for waiting until 14 weeks.
Earlier in pregnancy, fetal cells are less abundant in the amniotic fluid, making it more challenging to obtain a sufficient sample for accurate testing.
Additionally, the procedure carries a slightly higher risk of miscarriage before 14 weeks.
Choice B:
The audibility of the fetal heartbeat is not directly related to the timing of amniocentesis.
It's typically possible to hear the heartbeat by Doppler ultrasound around 10-12 weeks, but this doesn't mean there's enough amniotic fluid for amniocentesis.
Choice D:
The accuracy of genetic results is not dependent on the timing of amniocentesis after 14 weeks.
As long as a sufficient sample of amniotic fluid is obtained, the accuracy of the results is not affected by gestational age.
Choice C:
The most accurate explanation for why amniocentesis is not performed before 14 weeks is the amount of amniotic fluid. Before 14 weeks, there's typically not enough amniotic fluid to safely extract a sample without potentially harming the fetus or the placenta.
By 14 weeks, there's usually enough fluid to adequately cushion the fetus and the needle during the procedure, reducing the risks involved.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A:
While rupture of fetal membranes is a potential risk with placenta previa, it's not the primary reason to avoid a pelvic exam. If the membranes are already ruptured, a pelvic exam may be necessary to assess cervical dilation and fetal station.
However, in the absence of ruptured membranes, the risk of profound bleeding outweighs the benefits of a pelvic exam in women with placenta previa.
Choice C:
Preterm labor is a potential complication of placenta previa, but it's not directly caused by a pelvic exam. If preterm labor is suspected, a pelvic exam may be necessary to assess cervical dilation and fetal station.
However, in the absence of preterm labor signs, a pelvic exam is not routinely recommended in women with placenta previa due to the risk of bleeding.
Choice D:
Infection is a potential risk with any invasive procedure, including a pelvic exam. However, it's not a major concern in women with placenta previa compared to the risk of bleeding.
Proper sterile technique during the exam can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Choice B:
Profound bleeding is the most significant risk associated with a pelvic exam in women with placenta previa. The placenta is located abnormally low in the uterus, covering or partially covering the cervix. Any manipulation of the cervix, such as during a pelvic exam, can disrupt the placenta's attachment and cause significant bleeding.
This bleeding can be life-threatening for both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, it's crucial to avoid pelvic exams in women with placenta previa unless there's a compelling clinical reason to perform one.
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.