A first-time mother at 18 weeks of gestation comes for her regularly scheduled prenatal visit. The patient tells the nurse that she is afraid that she is going into premature labor because she is beginning to have regular contractions. The nurse explains that this is the Braxton Hicks sign and teaches the patient that this type of contraction:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) is painless. Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic, painless contractions that occur throughout pregnancy, but become more noticeable around the second trimester. These contractions are considered "practice contractions" as they help the uterus prepare for labor by toning the uterine muscles. They do not cause cervical dilation or impede oxygen flow to the fetus. Option B) increases with walking is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions typically decrease with rest and hydration. Walking may sometimes trigger these contractions, but they are not indicative of true labor. Option C) causes cervical dilation is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions are not associated with cervical changes or progressive labor. They are considered false labor contractions. Option D) impedes oxygen flow to the fetus is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions do not affect the oxygen flow to the fetus. These contractions are not strong or frequent enough to impact fetal well-being. Educationally, understanding the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions is crucial for pregnant individuals to alleviate unnecessary anxiety and know when to seek medical attention. Teaching about Braxton Hicks contractions helps expectant mothers differentiate between normal pregnancy changes and signs of impending labor, promoting better pregnancy outcomes and maternal well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pregnancy, nausea and vomiting in the first trimester, commonly known as morning sickness, are attributed to hormonal changes, making option B the correct answer. During early pregnancy, there is a significant rise in hormone levels, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, which can trigger these symptoms. These hormonal fluctuations can affect the gastrointestinal system and lead to nausea and vomiting. Option A, stating that it is due to an increase in gastric motility, is incorrect as pregnancy hormones actually tend to slow down gastric motility, contributing to symptoms of nausea and vomiting rather than increasing it. Option C, linking it to an increase in glucose levels, is not directly related to the etiology of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. While changes in blood sugar levels can impact overall health during pregnancy, they are not the primary cause of morning sickness. Option D, suggesting it is caused by a decrease in gastric secretions, is also inaccurate as hormonal changes during pregnancy can actually lead to an increase in gastric secretions, not a decrease. In an educational context, understanding the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to provide appropriate care and support to pregnant individuals. By recognizing the role of hormones in causing symptoms like nausea and vomiting, nurses can offer effective interventions and education to manage these common discomforts during early pregnancy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because Braxton Hicks contractions can occur throughout pregnancy but may not be felt until the third trimester. This is important to inform the patient because it helps differentiate them from true labor contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular, mild, and do not lead to cervical changes. Choice A is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions are not a definitive sign of preterm labor. Choice B is incorrect as Braxton Hicks contractions can cause discomfort for some women. Choice C is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions can start as early as the second trimester.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Physiologic anemia during pregnancy occurs due to the dilution of hemoglobin concentration. As blood volume increases more than red blood cell production, hemoglobin becomes more diluted, leading to lower hemoglobin levels. Inadequate iron intake (A) can cause iron-deficiency anemia, not physiologic anemia. The fetus establishing iron stores (B) is not a cause of anemia in the mother. Decreased production of erythrocytes (D) is not the primary reason for physiologic anemia during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "It may be due to changes in hormones." During the first trimester of pregnancy, hormonal changes, particularly an increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen levels, can trigger nausea and vomiting. This is known as morning sickness. These hormonal fluctuations can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Choice A (increase in gastric motility) is incorrect because nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are more commonly attributed to hormonal changes rather than an increase in gastric motility. Choice C (increase in glucose levels) is also incorrect as there is no direct link between elevated glucose levels and nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Choice D (decrease in gastric secretions) is incorrect as there is no evidence to support that a decrease in gastric secretions causes nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.