A nurse in a prenatal clinic is caring for a client who is suspected of having a hydatidiform mole. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to observe in this client?
Rapid decline in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels
Irregular fetal heart rate
Excessive uterine enlargement
Profuse, clear vaginal discharge
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
A rapid decline in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels is not typically associated with a hydatidiform mole. In fact, hCG levels are usually elevated in cases of hydatidiform mole due to the abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue. Elevated hCG levels can lead to symptoms such as severe nausea and vomiting, which are more indicative of this condition.
Choice B Reason:
An irregular fetal heart rate is not a common finding in hydatidiform mole cases. In a complete molar pregnancy, there is no viable fetus, and therefore, no fetal heart rate can be detected. In partial molar pregnancies, there may be some fetal tissue, but it is typically not viable and does not develop a regular heart rate.
Choice C Reason:
Excessive uterine enlargement is a hallmark sign of a hydatidiform mole. This condition causes the uterus to grow more rapidly than it would in a normal pregnancy due to the abnormal proliferation of trophoblastic tissue. This rapid growth can lead to a uterus that is significantly larger than expected for the gestational age.
Choice D Reason:
Profuse, clear vaginal discharge is not specifically associated with hydatidiform mole. While vaginal discharge can increase during pregnancy, the discharge associated with a molar pregnancy is typically dark brown or red due to bleeding from the abnormal tissue. Clear discharge is more commonly associated with normal pregnancy changes or other conditions.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A large amount of vaginal bleeding is not typically associated with an ectopic pregnancy. While some vaginal bleeding can occur, it is usually light and not the primary symptom. Heavy bleeding is more commonly associated with other complications such as miscarriage or placental issues.
Choice B reason:
Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age is not a characteristic of ectopic pregnancy. In fact, the uterus may not enlarge significantly because the pregnancy is occurring outside the uterine cavity. This symptom is more indicative of conditions like molar pregnancy.
Choice C reason:
Severe nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of a normal pregnancy due to hormonal changes but are not specific to ectopic pregnancy. While some women with ectopic pregnancies may experience nausea and vomiting, these symptoms alone are not diagnostic.
Choice D reason:
Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain is a hallmark symptom of ectopic pregnancy. This pain typically occurs on one side of the abdomen, corresponding to the location of the ectopic implantation, usually in a fallopian tube. The pain can become severe and is often accompanied by light vaginal bleeding. If the fallopian tube ruptures, the pain can become intense and may be accompanied by signs of internal bleeding, such as dizziness, shoulder pain, and shock.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Inwardly turned foot on the affected side: An inwardly turned foot, also known as metatarsus adductus, is not typically associated with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). This condition is more related to foot positioning and alignment rather than hip dysplasia.
Choice B reason:
Absent plantar reflexes: The plantar reflex, also known as the Babinski reflex, is usually present in newborns and indicates normal neurological function. An absent plantar reflex is not a common finding in DDH and would more likely suggest a neurological issue.
Choice C reason:
Lengthened thigh on the affected side: In DDH, the affected thigh is often shorter, not longer, due to the displacement of the femoral head from the acetabulum. This can lead to a noticeable difference in leg length.
Choice D reason:
Asymmetric thigh folds: Asymmetric thigh folds are a common sign of DDH. When the hip is dislocated or subluxated, it can cause uneven skin folds on the thighs and buttocks. This asymmetry is a key indicator that prompts further investigation, such as an ultrasound or X-ray.
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