ATI RN
Maternal Health Issues in the US Questions
Question 1 of 5
A new father has just been told that his infant has trisomy 18. Which identifying physical feature is unique to an infant with this genetic disorder?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Rocker-bottom feet and clenched hands with overlapping fingers are associated with trisomy 18. Microcephaly and capillary hemangiomas are associated with trisomy 13. Epicanthal folds and a simian crease are associated with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). Deletion of the short arm of chromosome number 5 is manifested by Cri du chat syndrome.
Question 2 of 5
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has designated Thanksgiving Day as National Family History Day. The U.S. Surgeon General encourages family members to discuss important family health information while sharing in holiday gatherings. Why is this initiative significant to nurses?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Although more than 1000 genetic tests are available, the single most cost-effective piece of genetic information is the family history. Nurses are ideally suited to take the lead in ongoing efforts to recognize the significance of the family history as an important source of genetic information. A computerized tool called My Family Health Portrait is available free of charge (https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/fhh-web/home.action). Other tools designed to help the lay community in completing their family histories are available to the public.
Question 3 of 5
Which statement most accurately describes dominant genetic disorders?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Each pregnancy is an independent event. The risk factor (e.g., one-in-two, one-in-four) remains the same for each child, no matter how many children are born to the family. In a dominant disorder, the likelihood of recurrence in subsequent children is 50% (i.e., one-in-two). An autosomal recessive disease carries a one-in-four chance of recurrence. In disorders involving maternal ingestion of drugs, subsequent children would be at risk only if the mother continued to take the drugs; the rate of risk would be difficult to calculate.
Question 4 of 5
Individual irregularities in the ovarian (menstrual) cycle are most often caused by what?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of maternal health issues in the US, understanding the causes of individual irregularities in the ovarian (menstrual) cycle is crucial. Option A, variations in the follicular (preovulatory) phase, is the correct answer. This phase is characterized by the development of the ovarian follicles, which house the eggs. Any irregularities in this phase can directly impact ovulation and subsequently the menstrual cycle. Option B, intact hypothalamic-pituitary feedback mechanism, is incorrect because disruptions in this feedback loop can affect hormone levels but are not the primary cause of individual irregularities in the ovarian cycle. Option C, functioning corpus luteum, is incorrect because the corpus luteum forms after ovulation and is responsible for producing progesterone to support pregnancy if it occurs, but its functioning does not directly cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Option D, prolonged ischemic phase, is incorrect as ischemia, which refers to inadequate blood supply, is not a common cause of individual irregularities in the ovarian cycle. Educationally, understanding the menstrual cycle and the key phases is essential for grasping the causes of irregularities and their implications for maternal health. Variations in the follicular phase can lead to menstrual irregularities, highlighting the importance of a balanced hormonal environment for reproductive health.
Question 5 of 5
A woman arrives at the clinic for her annual examination. She tells the nurse that she thinks she has a vaginal infection, and she has been using an over-the-counter cream for the past 2 days to treat it. How should the nurse initially respond?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct response, option C, is the most appropriate because it follows the nursing process of assessment. By asking the woman to describe her symptoms, the nurse can gather crucial information to assess the situation effectively. This not only helps in understanding the woman's health concern but also guides the nurse in providing appropriate care and advice. Option A is incorrect because while it provides relevant information about the potential interference of vaginal creams with Pap tests, it does not address the immediate concern of the woman's symptoms. Option B is incorrect as it dismisses the woman's actions without gathering more information or providing guidance on the current situation. Option D is incorrect as there is no immediate need to reschedule the appointment without first assessing the woman's condition. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of thorough assessment in nursing practice. It emphasizes the need to gather relevant information directly from the patient to make informed decisions and provide individualized care. Effective communication and assessment skills are essential for nurses to address patients' concerns promptly and appropriately.