Numerous changes in the integumentary system occur during pregnancy. Which change persists after birth?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Striae gravidarum. During pregnancy, striae gravidarum, commonly known as stretch marks, can develop due to the rapid stretching of the skin as the body grows to accommodate the developing fetus. These marks are a result of the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis. Unlike other changes such as epulis (localized gingival enlargement), chloasma (hyperpigmentation on the face), and telangiectasia (dilation of small blood vessels causing spider veins), which are mainly influenced by hormonal changes during pregnancy and tend to regress postpartum, striae gravidarum often persist after birth as permanent marks on the skin. Educationally, understanding these changes in the integumentary system during pregnancy is crucial for healthcare professionals working with pregnant individuals. It helps in providing appropriate care, guidance, and support to expectant mothers not only during pregnancy but also in the postpartum period. Knowledge of these physiological changes contributes to holistic maternal care and enhances the overall healthcare experience for both the mother and the healthcare provider.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, understanding the role of hormones is crucial. The correct answer, D) progesterone, is essential for maintaining pregnancy due to its role in preparing the uterine lining for implantation and sustaining the endometrium to support the developing fetus. Progesterone helps prevent contractions of the uterus that could lead to early labor and also plays a role in breast development for lactation. Option A) estrogen, while important in pregnancy for promoting growth of the uterus and increasing blood flow to the placenta, is not the primary hormone responsible for maintaining pregnancy. Option B) human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is produced by the developing placenta and is vital for detecting pregnancy in tests and stimulating the corpus luteum to produce progesterone in the early stages, but it is not the hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy. Option C) oxytocin is known as the "love hormone" and is crucial for labor and breastfeeding, but it is not the hormone primarily responsible for maintaining pregnancy. Educationally, knowing the specific roles of hormones in pregnancy is vital for nurses caring for pregnant patients to provide optimal care, monitor for complications, and educate patients on their changing physiology. Understanding the unique functions of each hormone helps nurses anticipate and address potential issues that may arise during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pregnancy, the appendix is displaced upward and laterally, high and to the right due to the enlarging uterus pushing the abdominal organs superiorly and to the right. This anatomical change makes it challenging to diagnose appendicitis as the typical symptoms may be masked or altered. Option A is correct because the upward and lateral displacement of the appendix is characteristic in pregnancy, making it difficult to locate and leading to atypical presentation of symptoms. Option B is incorrect as the appendix is displaced to the right, not to the left, during pregnancy. Option C is incorrect because McBurney point is the area of tenderness in appendicitis, but in pregnancy, the appendix is displaced from its usual location. Option D is incorrect as the appendix is displaced upward, not downward, and to the right during pregnancy. Understanding the anatomical changes that occur in pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately diagnose conditions like appendicitis. This knowledge can prevent delays in treatment and potential complications for both the mother and the developing fetus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Full Term—Pregnancy from the beginning of week 39 of gestation to the end of week 40. This option is accurate because full term refers to the period when the baby has reached complete development and is ready for birth. This stage is crucial for the baby to have fully developed organs and systems, increasing the chances of a healthy delivery. Option A) Viability—22 to 37 weeks since the last menstrual period (LMP) (assuming a fetal weight >500 g) is incorrect because viability refers to the point at which a fetus has the potential to survive outside the womb, typically around 24 weeks gestation. Option C) Preterm—Pregnancy from 20 to 28 weeks is incorrect as preterm refers to a birth that occurs before 37 weeks of gestation, increasing the risk of health complications for the baby. Option D) Postdate—Pregnancy that extends beyond 38 weeks is incorrect because postdate refers to a pregnancy that goes beyond the expected due date, which can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. Understanding the accurate time-based descriptions of stages in pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to monitor fetal development, provide appropriate care, and ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby. It is essential for students studying anatomy and physiology of pregnancy to grasp these concepts to apply them effectively in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question about the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, the correct answer is B. Nurses should be aware that the woman's increased urinary frequency in the first trimester is the result of exaggerated uterine anteflexion caused by softening. This is because during early pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder due to the softening and increased flexibility of the uterine muscles, leading to increased urinary frequency. Option A is incorrect because lightening, the descent of the fetus into the pelvis, typically occurs near the end of the third trimester, not the second trimester. Option C is incorrect as Braxton Hicks contractions are generally mild and irregular in the second trimester, becoming more noticeable in the third trimester but not necessarily more painful with exercise. Option D is incorrect as the uterine souffle refers to a soft blowing sound heard over the uterus, not the movement of the fetus. Educationally, understanding the changes in the uterus during pregnancy is crucial for nurses to provide accurate information and reassurance to pregnant patients. By knowing these physiological changes, nurses can better address patient concerns, provide appropriate advice, and offer support throughout the different stages of pregnancy.