A nurse is reviewing the results of an Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP) with a pregnant client.
What does a low level of AFP (<0.5 MoM) potentially indicate?
Neural tube defect.
Chromosomal abnormality.
Maternal weight-related factors.
Fetal demise.
The Correct Answer is B
A low level of AFP (<0.5 MoM) in a pregnant woman can indicate that the fetus has a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome.
This is because these conditions affect the development of the fetal liver, which produces AFP.
Choice A is wrong because neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, are associated with high levels of AFP (>2.5 MoM) in the maternal blood.
This is because AFP can leak from the open spinal canal of the fetus into the amniotic fluid and then into the maternal blood.
Choice C is wrong because maternal weight-related factors do not affect the level of AFP in the maternal blood.
However, they can affect the interpretation of the AFP test results, as the test needs to be adjusted for maternal weight, age, ethnicity, and gestational age.
Choice D is wrong because fetal demise (death) can also cause high levels of AFP in the maternal blood, as the AFP from the dead fetus can leak into the amniotic fluid and then into the maternal blood.
Normal ranges of AFP in pregnant women vary depending on the gestational age and the method of measurement.
Generally, normal levels of AFP are below 10 ng/ml in nonpregnant adults and below 2.5 MoM in pregnant women.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. The client has a history of placenta previa.
Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers all or part of the cervix, blocking the baby’s exit from the uterus.
This can cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery and increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Therefore, the nurse should report this condition to the provider before performing an amniocentesis.
Choice A is wrong because having Rh-negative blood type is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need an injection of Rh immunoglobulin after the procedure to prevent Rh sensitization.
Choice B is wrong because having a history of preterm labor is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need to be monitored closely for signs of preterm labor after the procedure.
Choice C is wrong because having a history of gestational diabetes is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need to have their blood glucose levels checked before and after the procedure.
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure that involves removing and testing a small sample of amniotic fluid from the uterus for genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome or Patau syndrome.
It can also be used to diagnose fetal infections, treat excess amniotic fluid, or test fetal lung maturity
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The level of AFP in a pregnant woman’s blood depends on how far along she is in her pregnancy.
AFP levels are normally high in the early weeks of pregnancy and then decline as the pregnancy progresses.
If the AFP level is too high or too low for the gestational age, it may indicate a problem with the baby’s development.
Choice A is wrong because maternal weight does not affect AFP levels.
Choice B is wrong because fetal heart rate does not affect AFP levels.
Choice D is wrong because the placental function does not affect AFP levels directly, but it may affect the levels of other hormones that are measured along with AFP in a quad screen.
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