The patient has just learned that she is pregnant and overhears the gynecologist saying that she has a positive Chadwick's sign. When the patient asks the nurse what this means, how would the nurse respond?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Chadwick's sign refers to the bluish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and labia due to increased blood flow, a result of pregnancy hormones. The mucus plug forming in the cervical canal indicates protection from uterine infections, a crucial function during pregnancy. This response directly correlates Chadwick's sign with its physiological significance, showing the nurse's knowledge and ability to educate the patient effectively. Other choices are incorrect because they do not accurately describe Chadwick's sign or its implications in pregnancy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Decreased motility in the intestines. During pregnancy, hormonal changes, specifically increased levels of progesterone, can lead to decreased intestinal motility. This slower movement of food through the intestines can result in constipation. The other choices are incorrect because increased emptying time in the intestines (choice A) would actually help prevent constipation, abdominal distention and bloating (choice B) are symptoms of constipation rather than causes, and decreased absorption of water (choice C) would not directly lead to increased constipation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. In a healthy pregnancy, GFR increases to accommodate the increased metabolic demands. 2. An increase in serum creatinine level indicates impaired renal function, as creatinine clearance decreases during pregnancy. 3. Decrease in BUN is normal due to increased GFR. 4. Mild proteinuria can be common in pregnancy without indicating a complication. Therefore, an increase in serum creatinine level (Choice B) suggests a potential renal complication during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient expresses conflicting emotions of wanting to become pregnant but feeling scared about being a mother, indicating ambivalence. Choice A indicates awareness of physical changes, not necessarily ambivalence. Choice B reflects physical discomfort, not emotional conflict. Choice C shows concern about weight gain, not conflicting feelings. Overall, D is the only option reflecting mixed emotions about pregnancy and motherhood.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Grief work. In the process of maternal role attainment, giving up certain aspects of her previous life involves experiencing grief over the losses associated with the new role. This step is essential for the woman to fully embrace her new identity as a mother. Fantasy (A) refers to imagining scenarios, role playing (C) involves acting out behaviors, and looking for a fit (D) focuses on finding a balance between personal needs and the demands of the maternal role. Grief work is the most appropriate term that specifically addresses the emotional process of letting go and adjusting to the new responsibilities of motherhood.