The nurse knows that a normal physiologic alteration of the circulatory system associated with thromboembolic events in pregnancy is:

Choice A rationale

Limiting exercise to low-impact aerobics is safe and suitable for pregnant women.

Choice B rationale

Swimming is considered a safe and beneficial exercise during pregnancy.

Choice C rationale

Walking is a recommended form of exercise for pregnant women.

Choice D rationale

Sitting in a sauna is not advised during pregnancy due to risks of overheating and dehydration. .

Choice A rationale

During pregnancy, the body’s production of red blood cells usually increases to meet the increased demands of the growing fetus. Therefore, a drop in hematocrit is not typically due to insufficient red blood cell production.

Choice B rationale

While iron is essential during pregnancy, a reduction in hematocrit levels at 16 weeks' gestation is primarily due to increased plasma volume, rather than iron deficiency. Nutritional counseling may still be beneficial but isn't the primary explanation for this change.

Choice C rationale

A hematocrit level of 34% at 16 weeks is generally not considered indicative of a severe problem. Instead, it is a physiological response to increased plasma volume, known as dilutional anemia of pregnancy.

Choice D rationale

The primary reason for a lower hematocrit count during pregnancy is the increase in blood plasma volume, leading to dilutional anemia. This is a normal adaptation to pregnancy that ensures adequate blood flow to the fetus.