A woman is admitted for repair of cystocele and rectocele. She has nine living children. In taking her health history, what would the nurse expect to find?

Choice A: Breast milk is not the correct answer because it is not a route of transmission for syphilis. Syphilis is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum, which cannot survive in breast milk. However, breastfeeding mothers with syphilis should be treated with antibiotics to prevent other complications.

Choice B: The birth canal is not the correct answer because it is not a route of transmission for syphilis. Syphilis can be transmitted through sexual contact, but not through vaginal delivery. However, pregnant women with syphilis should be screened and treated before delivery to prevent congenital syphilis in their newborns.

Choice C: Amniotic fluid is not the correct answer because it is not a route of transmission for syphilis. Syphilis cannot cross the amniotic membrane, which protects the fetus from infections in the uterus. However, pregnant women with syphilis should be monitored for signs of fetal distress or premature rupture of membranes.

Choice D: Placenta is the correct answer because it is a route of transmission for syphilis. Syphilis can cross the placenta, which connects the mother and the fetus through blood vessels. This can result in congenital syphilis, which can cause serious problems such as stillbirth, miscarriage, low birth weight, deformities, or neurological damage in newborns.

Choice A: Refusing to look at the dressing or surgical incision is the correct answer because it is a behavior that may indicate difficulty adjusting to the loss of her breast. Refusing to look at the dressing or surgical incision may reflect denial, avoidance, or fear of facing the reality of the surgery and its consequences. It may also indicate low self-esteem, body image disturbance, or depression. The nurse should assess the client's emotional state and provide support and education.

Choice B: Asking questions about the information on her postoperative care pamphlet is not the correct answer because it is a behavior that may indicate a positive adjustment to the loss of her breast. Asking questions about the information on her postoperative care pamphlet may reflect acceptance, curiosity, or motivation to learn about her condition and treatment. It may also indicate high self-efficacy, coping skills, or optimism. The nurse should encourage the client's involvement and provide clear and accurate information.

Choice C: Performing arm exercises once or twice a day is not the correct answer because it is a behavior that may indicate a positive adjustment to the loss of her breast. Performing arm exercises once or twice a day may reflect compliance, responsibility, or self-care. It may also indicate physical recovery, functional ability, or quality of life. The nurse should reinforce the client's efforts and provide feedback and guidance.

Choice D: Asking for pain medication every 3 hours is not the correct answer because it is a behavior that may indicate a normal response to the loss of her breast. Asking for pain medication every 3 hours may reflect pain management, comfort, or relief. It may also indicate trust, communication, or satisfaction with care. The nurse should assess the client's pain level and provide adequate and timely pain relief.