The effects of stress on the developing organism can be greatly reduced if the expectant mother __________.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Having access to social support during stressful periods can greatly reduce the effects of stress on the developing organism. Social support can provide emotional comfort, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging, which can help the expectant mother cope with stress more effectively. This support system can also help mitigate the negative impact of stress on the developing baby during pregnancy. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while folic acid is important for prenatal health, it does not directly address the effects of stress. Taking anti-anxiety medication should be done under medical supervision and as a last resort due to potential risks to the developing baby. Bed rest during the last trimester is not a solution to reduce the effects of stress and may not address the underlying causes of stress.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During the third stage of labor, the correct answer is C, the placenta is delivered. This stage occurs after the baby is born and involves the expulsion of the placenta from the uterus. Choice A is incorrect because the thinning of the cervix to nothing typically occurs during the first stage of labor. Choice B is incorrect as uterine contractions usually begin during the first stage of labor to help with the dilation of the cervix. Choice D is incorrect because the baby is typically born in the second stage of labor, not the third.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Among the Apgar criteria, the pink color (choice A), reflex irritability (choice B), and limp muscle tone (choice C) are relatively easy to assess in newborns of all races. However, the criterion that can be more difficult to apply to newborns of all races is strong breathing (choice D). This is because evaluating the strength of a newborn's breathing can be more subjective and require careful observation. Unlike the other criteria that have more visible and objective indicators, assessing the strength of breathing might vary based on the observer's interpretation, making it more challenging to apply universally.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Natural childbirth experts Grantly Dick-Read and Fernand Lamaze recognized that cultural attitudes about childbirth had taught women to fear the birth experience. They believed that this fear contributed to increased pain during labor and advocated for methods to reduce fear and promote relaxation during childbirth. Choice B is incorrect as the focus is on fear, not on techniques to lessen pain. Choice C is incorrect as the experts did not advocate against medical intervention but rather against unnecessary fear. Choice D is incorrect as the experts aimed to change attitudes towards childbirth, not redirect focus to child rearing.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Critics worry that fetal monitoring may identify babies as in danger who, in fact, are not. This can lead to unnecessary interventions and stress for the parents. It is important to carefully consider the accuracy and benefits of fetal monitoring to avoid unnecessary harm to both the mother and the baby. Choice A is incorrect because fetal monitoring does not cause numbness in the lower half of the body. Choice B is incorrect as fetal monitoring is helpful in detecting hidden problems with the baby. Choice D is incorrect as there is no direct link between fetal monitoring and an increased likelihood of infant brain damage.