ATI RN
Fetal Development NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who is 16 weeks pregnant with her first baby asks how long it will be before she feels the baby move. Which is the nurse’s best answer?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Maternal perception of fetal movement (quickening) usually begins between 17 and 20 weeks after conception. Because this is her first pregnancy, movement is felt toward the later part of the 17 to 20 weeks. “The baby is moving, but you can’t feel it yet” may be alarming to the woman. “Some babies are quiet and you don’t feel them move” is a true statement; the fetus’ movements are not strong enough to be felt until 17 to 20 weeks; however, this statement does not answer the woman’s concern. Fetal movement should be felt between 17 and 20 weeks; if movement is not perceptible by the end of that time, further assessment will be necessary.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is planning a prenatal class on fetal development. Which characteristics of prenatal development should the nurse include for a fetus of 24 weeks, based on fertilization age? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In prenatal classes, it is crucial to provide accurate information to expectant parents. For a fetus at 24 weeks, the correct characteristic to include is "Ear cartilage firm." This is because by 24 weeks, the fetal ear has developed to the point where the cartilage is firmer and more structured, making it a significant milestone in fetal development. Regarding the incorrect options: - Option B, "Skin wrinkled and red," is typically seen in earlier gestational ages, around 20 weeks. By 24 weeks, the skin becomes less translucent and starts to develop pigment, appearing less red and wrinkled. - Option C, "Testes descending toward the inguinal rings," is a characteristic more commonly observed around 28-32 weeks of gestation as part of the development of the male reproductive system. - Option D, "Surfactant production nears mature levels," is a crucial milestone in fetal lung development, but typically occurs later in gestation, around 32-36 weeks. Educationally, understanding the timeline of fetal development is essential for healthcare providers working with pregnant individuals. By knowing the specific milestones at different gestational ages, nurses can provide accurate and timely information to expectant parents, helping them track the progress of their pregnancy and understand what to expect during each stage of prenatal development. This knowledge also enables healthcare professionals to identify any deviations from the norm and intervene appropriately to ensure the best possible outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is discussing genetically linked diseases with a couple planning a pregnancy. The female states, 'I am concerned because there is a history of sickle-cell disease in my family.' Which information from the nurse is correct?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C) The male partner needs genetic testing. Explanation: Sickle-cell disease is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder, meaning both parents must carry the gene for their child to inherit the disease. In this scenario, if the female carries the sickle-cell gene, the male partner's genetic status is crucial. By undergoing genetic testing, the male partner can determine if he also carries the gene. If he does not, the risk of passing on sickle-cell disease to their offspring decreases significantly. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Any offspring will have the disease: This is incorrect as both parents must be carriers for the offspring to inherit sickle-cell disease. B) Only male children will have the disease: Sickle-cell disease is not sex-linked; both males and females can inherit it. D) The couple should not become pregnant: This is an extreme and unnecessary recommendation. With proper genetic counseling and testing, the couple can make informed decisions about their pregnancy options. Educational context: Understanding the inheritance patterns of genetic diseases like sickle-cell disease is crucial for healthcare professionals providing counseling to individuals or couples planning a pregnancy. Genetic testing and counseling can help assess the risk of passing on genetic disorders and guide decision-making regarding family planning.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is teaching a class about embryonic and fetal development to couples in the early stage of pregnancy. For which reason does the nurse emphasize the first 8 weeks of gestation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding embryonic and fetal development is crucial to ensure safe medication use during pregnancy. The correct answer, option C, is emphasized by the nurse because during the first 8 weeks of gestation, all organ systems are rapidly developing in the embryo. This period is known as the embryonic period, during which the foundation for all major body structures is laid down. Educating couples about this critical window helps them understand the significance of this early stage in ensuring the proper formation of their baby's organs. Option A is incorrect because although early pregnancy loss can occur, it is not the primary reason for emphasizing the first 8 weeks of gestation. Option B is incorrect because the lack of size and movement does not impact the significance of organ development during this period. Option D is incorrect because factors that can interrupt pregnancy remain a concern throughout gestation, not just limited to the first 8 weeks. By highlighting the importance of organ development during the first 8 weeks, the nurse is empowering couples with knowledge that can influence their behaviors and decisions during pregnancy, including the avoidance of potentially harmful medications that could affect the developing fetus. This educational focus equips parents with the understanding needed to promote a healthy start for their baby.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse works in an infertility clinic and is interviewing a male patient whose partner has been unable to conceive. Which finding obtained during a health history will cause the nurse greatest concern?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, option B, "The patient had a vasectomy reversed," is the most concerning finding obtained during the health history. This is because a vasectomy reversal does not always guarantee the restoration of fertility, and there may be complications or issues that arise post-reversal that could impact the patient's ability to conceive. From an educational standpoint, it is crucial to understand the implications of surgical interventions like vasectomy reversal and the potential impact on fertility. Option A, "The patient is a passionate gardener," is not as concerning because gardening, in itself, does not typically impact male fertility. Option C, "The patient rides a bicycle daily to work," may have some impact on fertility due to potential pressure on the genital area, but it is not as concerning as a vasectomy reversal. Option D, "The patient is concerned about infertility," is not the most concerning finding as it is expected for a patient seeking help at an infertility clinic to be concerned about infertility. It is essential for nurses to be able to differentiate between normal concerns and potential risk factors during health assessments in fertility clinics.