A couple just learned they are expecting their first child and are curious if they are having a boy or a girl. At what point of development can the couple first expect to see the sex of their child on ultrasound?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pregnancy, the correct time to determine the sex of the baby via ultrasound is typically around 10 weeks' gestational age. At this stage, the genital tubercle begins to differentiate into either male or female genitalia, allowing for visualization of the baby's sex on ultrasound. Option A (4 weeks' gestational age) is incorrect because at this early stage, the embryo is still in the process of implantation and basic organ development, and the sex cannot be determined. Option B (6 weeks' gestational age) is also too early for sex determination as the reproductive organs have not yet fully developed to be distinguishable on ultrasound. Option D (16 weeks' gestational age) is later than the correct answer. By 16 weeks, the sex organs are usually more developed and visible on ultrasound, but by 10 weeks, they are developed enough to determine the sex accurately. Understanding the timing of sex determination in pregnancy is crucial for both healthcare providers and expectant parents as it helps in proper prenatal care planning and bonding with the baby.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of fetal diagnostic testing during labor, the most important aspect for expectant parents is the safety of the fetus, which is option A. This is because the primary concern for parents in this situation is the well-being and health of their unborn child. Fetal diagnostic testing is crucial for monitoring the baby's condition during labor to ensure timely interventions if any issues arise. Safety of the fetus is paramount as it directly impacts the baby's health and outcomes. Option B, duration of the test, is not as crucial to expectant parents as the safety of their baby. While the duration may be a consideration, ensuring the fetus's safety takes precedence. Option C, cost of the procedure, is also secondary to the safety of the fetus. Expectant parents are generally more concerned about the health and well-being of their baby than the financial aspect, especially in a critical situation like labor. Option D, physical discomfort caused by the procedure, though important, is still not as critical as ensuring the safety of the fetus. Parents are willing to endure temporary discomfort if it means safeguarding their baby's health. Educationally, it is essential to emphasize to healthcare providers and parents that safety and well-being of the fetus should be the top priority during fetal diagnostic testing. Understanding this priority can help parents make informed decisions and healthcare providers deliver optimal care during labor. By prioritizing fetal safety, healthcare professionals can ensure the best possible outcomes for both the baby and the parents.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Position the patient for comfort, adjusting the tocotransducer belt to locate fetal heart rate. In preparing a pregnant patient for a nonstress test (NST), it is crucial to ensure the patient is comfortable as this can affect the accuracy of the fetal monitoring results. Proper positioning helps in obtaining a clear fetal heart rate tracing, which is essential for interpreting the NST results accurately. Option A is incorrect because having the patient void is not a necessary step for the NST. A full bladder does not typically interfere with the monitoring results in this context. Option B is also incorrect as maintaining NPO status is not required for a nonstress test. It is important for the patient to be adequately hydrated, but there is no need for NPO status before the test. Option D is incorrect as well because preparing an infusion pump with oxytocin is not a standard procedure for a nonstress test. Oxytocin is typically used to induce or augment labor and is not necessary for routine fetal monitoring during an NST. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of proper patient positioning and comfort during fetal monitoring procedures such as the NST. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to understand the specific requirements for different antenatal tests to ensure accurate results and optimal patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) NST reactive, reassuring. This is because the fetal heart rate baseline is within normal limits (110-160 bpm) and there are accelerations of at least 15 bpm lasting for at least 15 seconds, which indicate a reactive NST. These findings suggest that the fetus is well-oxygenated and not experiencing distress during the monitoring period. Option A) NST positive, nonreassuring is incorrect because a positive NST would indicate abnormal findings such as late decelerations, decreased variability, or bradycardia, which are not present in this case. Option B) NST negative, reassuring is incorrect because a negative NST typically refers to a test that does not show the expected number of accelerations, which is not the case here as the test is reactive. Option D) NST nonreactive, nonreassuring is incorrect as the test described in the question is actually reactive and reassuring. Educationally, understanding the interpretation of fetal heart rate monitoring is crucial for assessing fetal well-being during labor. Nurses and healthcare providers need to accurately interpret NST results to make timely and appropriate clinical decisions regarding the management of labor and delivery. Regular review and practice of interpreting fetal heart rate monitoring findings are essential skills for healthcare professionals involved in obstetric care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, option B, "We could do a blood test to check," is the most appropriate response for the nurse to make. This is because a blood test for pregnancy, specifically measuring the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is more sensitive and accurate than a home pregnancy test, especially in early pregnancy. By suggesting a blood test, the nurse can provide a more definitive answer to the client's uncertainty. Option A, "Your period is probably just irregular," is incorrect because it dismisses the client's concerns without further investigation. Option C, "Home pregnancy test results are very accurate," is incorrect as it may mislead the client into trusting the negative result without considering other factors. Option D, "My recommendation would be to repeat the test in one week," is less ideal than option B because it delays the client from seeking a more accurate test promptly. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the limitations of home pregnancy tests and the significance of healthcare professionals guiding clients towards more reliable diagnostic methods, such as blood tests, to confirm pregnancy accurately. It emphasizes the role of nurses in providing evidence-based care and promoting informed decision-making for clients.