ATI RN
Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is educating a client at her first prenatal visit about hormone changes. The nurse explains that which of the following is the purpose of progesterone?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles. Progesterone is essential during pregnancy to maintain the uterine lining and prevent contractions that could lead to miscarriage. It also relaxes smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent premature labor. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because progesterone's primary role is not to stimulate uterine development, relax pelvic ligaments and joints, or prepare breasts for lactation.
Question 2 of 5
Now in her second trimester of pregnancy, the client, who was a marathon runner before nausea and overwhelming tiredness kept her from exercising regularly, is wondering whether she can run now. What is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Your level of exercise will be somewhat modified by the changes occurring in your body." Rationale: 1. Pregnancy impacts a woman's body significantly, including changes in hormones, weight distribution, and center of gravity. 2. These changes can affect a woman's ability to engage in high-impact activities like running. 3. The nurse's response acknowledges the need for modification in exercise routine to accommodate these changes. 4. It promotes a balanced approach to exercise during pregnancy, considering both the benefits of physical activity and the safety of the mother and baby. Summary of Other Choices: A: "Certainly, if you feel up to it." - This response oversimplifies the situation and does not consider the specific physiological changes during pregnancy that may impact the woman's ability to run safely. C: "Your primary health care provider will need to give you permission." - While consulting a healthcare provider is important, this response does not address the specific concerns related to exercise during pregnancy.
Question 3 of 5
A client at 20 weeks gestation has just been examined during a prenatal visit. Which assessment should the nurse recognize as an abnormal finding and the need for further testing?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. At 20 weeks gestation, the fundal height should correspond closely to the number of weeks pregnant (around 20 cm). A fundal height of 26 cm indicates potential fetal growth abnormalities or incorrect dating. Further testing, such as an ultrasound, is needed to assess fetal growth and well-being. Choice B (Pulse rate 15 bpm higher) is not typically concerning during pregnancy as pulse rate can increase due to physiological changes. Choice C (Blood pressure of 128/68) falls within the normal range for pregnancy. Choice D (Deep tendon reflexes +2) is a normal finding and not an indication for further testing.
Question 4 of 5
A woman who is primigravida is complaining of leg cramps. Which statement by the nurse best describes how to provide relief from this discomfort?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dorsiflex the foot to relieve the cramping. Dorsiflexing the foot, which involves pulling the toes towards the shin, helps to stretch the calf muscle and alleviate cramping. This action targets the specific muscle group affected by leg cramps. A: Incorrect. Stretching by extending both legs and touching your toes may not directly target the calf muscle. C: Incorrect. Elevating the leg above the heart is more suitable for reducing swelling, not necessarily relieving leg cramps. D: Incorrect. Plantar flexing the foot (pointing toes away from the shin) may worsen the cramping as it contracts the calf muscle further.
Question 5 of 5
A client in her third trimester reports increased perineal pressure. Which is the clinical cause for this complaint?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fundal height. In the third trimester, the growing uterus causes increased pressure on the pelvic organs, leading to perineal pressure. Fundal height measures the height of the uterus and correlates with gestational age, indicating the position and size of the fetus. As the uterus grows, fundal height increases, causing pressure on the perineal area. Urinary infection (B) can cause discomfort but would present with other symptoms like burning urination. Constipation (C) may cause discomfort but typically does not lead to increased perineal pressure. Hydramnios (D) refers to excess amniotic fluid, which can lead to abdominal distension but is not directly related to perineal pressure.