ATI RN
Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Questions
Question 1 of 5
To reassure and educate pregnant patients about changes in the cervix, vagina, and position of the fetus, nurses should be aware that:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because increased vascularity of the vagina during pregnancy leads to heightened sensitivity and can result in increased arousal, especially in the second trimester. This is due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes affecting the vaginal tissues. This physiological response is a normal part of pregnancy and can enhance sexual experiences for some women. A is incorrect because changes in the cervix do not impact the evaluation of abnormal Pap tests. B is incorrect as quickening refers to the first perception of fetal movements by the pregnant woman, not palpating the fetus. C is incorrect as Chadwick's sign, the deepening color of the vaginal mucosa and cervix, typically appears in the first trimester, not the second trimester.
Question 2 of 5
To reassure and educate their pregnant patients about changes in their blood pressure, maternity nurses should be aware that:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because during pregnancy, the systolic blood pressure tends to increase slightly as pregnancy progresses due to increased cardiac output and decreased systemic vascular resistance. On the other hand, the diastolic pressure typically remains constant or may even decrease slightly. This physiological change is important for maternity nurses to be aware of in order to differentiate normal pregnancy-related changes from potential complications like preeclampsia. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A: This choice discusses the effect of cuff size on blood pressure readings, which is important but not directly related to the changes in blood pressure during pregnancy. B: Shifting positions and changing arms for measurements may affect accuracy but is not specifically related to blood pressure changes during pregnancy. D: Compression of iliac veins and inferior vena cava by the uterus leading to hemorrhoids is unrelated to changes in blood pressure during pregnancy.
Question 3 of 5
To reassure and educate pregnant patients about the functioning of their kidneys in eliminating waste products, maternity nurses should be aware that:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Increased bladder sensitivity and compression by the enlarging uterus lead to the urge to urinate even if the bladder is almost empty. This is due to the pressure exerted on the bladder by the growing fetus, causing increased frequency of urination. Step 2: This phenomenon is a common experience for pregnant women as their uterus expands and places pressure on the bladder, making them feel the urge to urinate frequently. Step 3: Maternity nurses should be aware of this physiological change to reassure pregnant patients that this urge to urinate is normal during pregnancy and not necessarily indicative of a urinary tract infection. Summary: Choice A is incorrect because increased urinary output in pregnant women does not necessarily make them less susceptible to urinary infection. Choice C is incorrect because renal function is not more efficient when a pregnant woman assumes a supine position; actually, lying on the back can reduce blood flow to the baby. Choice D is incorrect because using diuretics during pregnancy is generally not recommended as it
Question 4 of 5
A first-time mother at 18 weeks of gestation comes for her regularly scheduled prenatal visit. The patient tells the nurse that she is afraid that she is going into premature labor because she is beginning to have regular contractions. The nurse explains that this is the Braxton Hicks sign and teaches the patient that this type of contraction:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: is painless. Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions that are usually painless and irregular. They do not lead to cervical dilation or impede oxygen flow to the fetus. By educating the patient that these contractions are normal and not a cause for concern, the nurse can help alleviate the patient's fears. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because Braxton Hicks contractions do not increase with walking, cause cervical dilation, or impact oxygen flow to the fetus. It is important for the patient to understand the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions to avoid unnecessary anxiety and stress.
Question 5 of 5
The maternity nurse understands that vascular volume increases 40% to 45% during pregnancy to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the increased vascular volume during pregnancy is essential to provide adequate perfusion of the placenta, ensuring proper nutrient and oxygen exchange between the mother and fetus. This is crucial for the optimal growth and development of the fetus. A: The increased vascular volume during pregnancy does not compensate for decreased renal plasma flow but rather supports the increased metabolic demands of pregnancy. C: The elimination of metabolic wastes of the mother is primarily carried out by the kidneys and liver, not solely through increased vascular volume. D: Preventing maternal and fetal dehydration is more related to adequate fluid intake and retention, rather than the increase in vascular volume during pregnancy.