A nurse teaches newly pregnant clients that if an ovum is fertilized and implants in the endometrium, the hormone the fertilized egg begins to secrete is which of the following?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In early pregnancy, when the fertilized egg implants in the endometrium, it starts to secrete human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone is produced by the developing placenta and is commonly referred to as the pregnancy hormone. hCG plays a crucial role in maintaining the corpus luteum, which in turn produces progesterone to support the pregnancy until the placenta takes over hormone production. Option A) Estrogen is involved in the menstrual cycle and plays a role in preparing the endometrium for implantation but is not the hormone secreted by the fertilized egg. Option C) Progesterone is essential for maintaining the uterine lining during pregnancy, but it is not the hormone initially secreted by the fertilized egg upon implantation. Option D) Luteinizing hormone is responsible for ovulation and corpus luteum formation but is not the hormone secreted by the fertilized egg. Understanding the hormones involved in early pregnancy is crucial for nurses working in maternal newborn care as it allows them to provide accurate education to pregnant clients about the changes in their bodies and the development of the fetus. This knowledge helps nurses support and educate expectant mothers throughout their pregnancies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Abruptio placentae. Abruptio placentae is a serious condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, causing sudden pain and bright red vaginal bleeding. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent harm to both the mother and the baby. Option A) Placenta previa is characterized by painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester due to the placenta partially or fully covering the cervix. This condition is not associated with sudden pain. Option C) Preterm labor involves regular contractions leading to cervical changes before 37 weeks of gestation. While preterm labor can cause pain and bleeding, it typically does not present as a sudden onset with bright red bleeding. Option D) Rupture of membranes refers to the breaking of the amniotic sac, which may cause a gush of fluid but is not typically associated with sudden pain and bright red bleeding. Educationally, understanding these different conditions is crucial for nurses working in maternal newborn care to provide timely and appropriate care to women in labor. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of abruptio placentae is vital for prompt intervention and ensuring the best possible outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "I will report any headache or vision changes immediately," is the correct answer indicating understanding by the client with preeclampsia about home care. Preeclampsia is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, such as the liver and kidneys. Headaches and visual disturbances are common symptoms of worsening preeclampsia that require immediate attention to prevent potentially life-threatening complications like eclampsia. Option A, monitoring blood pressure once a week, is incorrect because individuals with preeclampsia need more frequent monitoring, preferably daily, to detect any sudden changes that could indicate worsening of the condition. Option B, limiting fluid intake to reduce swelling, is incorrect because while managing fluid intake is important in preeclampsia, restricting fluids too much can lead to dehydration, which is not recommended. Option D, exercising daily to maintain health, is incorrect because in preeclampsia, strict bed rest or limited physical activity is often recommended to prevent further complications. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of patient education in managing a high-risk condition like preeclampsia. It emphasizes the critical role of the nurse in providing clear instructions on signs and symptoms that necessitate immediate medical attention to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the unborn baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question about Rh incompatibility education, option B is the correct statement indicating understanding. The statement "I will need Rho(D) immune globulin if my baby is Rh positive" shows knowledge of the necessary treatment to prevent maternal sensitization to Rh-positive blood. Rho(D) immune globulin is given to Rh-negative mothers to prevent the development of Rh antibodies, which can cause harm in future pregnancies if the baby is Rh positive. Option A is incorrect because Rh incompatibility can occur in any pregnancy where the mother is Rh negative and the baby is Rh positive, not just in first pregnancies. Option C is incorrect as Rh incompatibility is not treated with antibiotics; it is managed by administering Rho(D) immune globulin and monitoring for complications. Option D is incorrect because Rh incompatibility can have serious effects on the baby, leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn if not appropriately managed. In the educational context, it is crucial for nurses to provide accurate information about Rh incompatibility to pregnant women to prevent potential complications in future pregnancies. Understanding the importance of Rho(D) immune globulin administration can help ensure the health of both the mother and the baby in cases of Rh incompatibility.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) It helps prevent neural tube defects. Folic acid is a crucial nutrient during pregnancy as it plays a significant role in preventing neural tube defects such as spina bifida in the developing fetus. The neural tube develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord, so ensuring an adequate intake of folic acid is essential for the baby's healthy growth and development. Option A) It prevents gestational diabetes is incorrect because folic acid does not prevent gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is managed through proper diet, exercise, and sometimes medication under medical supervision. Option C) It supports fetal bone development is incorrect because while calcium and vitamin D are essential for fetal bone development, folic acid primarily focuses on preventing neural tube defects. Option D) It reduces the risk of preterm labor is incorrect as folic acid does not specifically reduce the risk of preterm labor. Preterm labor risk factors and prevention strategies involve various other factors unrelated to folic acid intake. Educationally, understanding the importance of folic acid in preventing neural tube defects is crucial for nurses caring for pregnant women. By providing accurate information to pregnant clients, nurses can help promote the best outcomes for both the mother and the developing fetus. This knowledge empowers nurses to educate and support pregnant clients in making informed decisions about their prenatal care.