The maternity nurse understands that vascular volume increases 40% to 45% during pregnancy to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pregnancy, the increase in vascular volume of 40% to 45% is crucial to provide adequate perfusion of the placenta, making option B the correct answer. The placenta functions as the interface between maternal and fetal circulation, facilitating nutrient and oxygen exchange. The increased vascular volume ensures that there is enough blood flow to the placenta to support fetal growth and development. Option A is incorrect because the increase in vascular volume during pregnancy is not primarily to compensate for decreased renal plasma flow. While renal adaptations do occur in pregnancy, the main purpose of the increased vascular volume is to support the growing fetus. Option C is incorrect because the elimination of metabolic wastes of the mother is primarily carried out by the kidneys and other excretory organs, not solely through the increase in vascular volume. Option D is incorrect because preventing maternal and fetal dehydration is not the primary function of the increased vascular volume during pregnancy. Dehydration can be managed through adequate fluid intake and is not directly related to the vascular changes that occur during pregnancy. Understanding the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy is essential for healthcare professionals, especially maternity nurses, to provide optimal care to pregnant individuals and ensure positive outcomes for both the mother and the fetus. By grasping the importance of vascular volume changes, nurses can intervene promptly if any issues arise that could impact placental perfusion and fetal well-being.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because Braxton Hicks contractions can occur throughout pregnancy but may not be felt until the third trimester. This is important to inform the patient because it helps differentiate them from true labor contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular, mild, and do not lead to cervical changes. Choice A is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions are not a definitive sign of preterm labor. Choice B is incorrect as Braxton Hicks contractions can cause discomfort for some women. Choice C is incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions can start as early as the second trimester.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Physiologic anemia during pregnancy occurs due to the dilution of hemoglobin concentration. As blood volume increases more than red blood cell production, hemoglobin becomes more diluted, leading to lower hemoglobin levels. Inadequate iron intake (A) can cause iron-deficiency anemia, not physiologic anemia. The fetus establishing iron stores (B) is not a cause of anemia in the mother. Decreased production of erythrocytes (D) is not the primary reason for physiologic anemia during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "It may be due to changes in hormones." During the first trimester of pregnancy, hormonal changes, particularly an increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen levels, can trigger nausea and vomiting. This is known as morning sickness. These hormonal fluctuations can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Choice A (increase in gastric motility) is incorrect because nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are more commonly attributed to hormonal changes rather than an increase in gastric motility. Choice C (increase in glucose levels) is also incorrect as there is no direct link between elevated glucose levels and nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Choice D (decrease in gastric secretions) is incorrect as there is no evidence to support that a decrease in gastric secretions causes nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because pseudoanemia of pregnancy is a normal physiological change where the blood volume expands more rapidly than red blood cell production, leading to a relative decrease in the concentration of red blood cells. By informing the patient that due to the pregnancy, her blood volume has increased, the nurse is addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This explanation reassures the patient that the pseudoanemia is a common occurrence during pregnancy and does not indicate a true anemia requiring treatment. Choice A is incorrect as it does not address the patient's concerns about pseudoanemia and delays providing a clear explanation. Choice B is incorrect because pseudoanemia does not require a high-iron diet for correction. Choice D is incorrect as prescribing iron pills is unnecessary for pseudoanemia, which is a normal variant of pregnancy.