What is the significance of cervical mucus changes during the menstrual cycle?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: It becomes clear and stretchy during ovulation, indicating peak fertility. Cervical mucus changes during the menstrual cycle are important as they reflect the hormonal changes that occur. During ovulation, cervical mucus becomes clear, watery, and stretchy, resembling egg whites. This type of mucus promotes sperm survival and motility, indicating the most fertile period for conception. The other choices are incorrect because cervical mucus changes do not confirm pregnancy (A), are indeed relevant to fertility (C), and do not only occur after ovulation but actually signal peak fertility during ovulation (D).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Smoking cessation improves both male and female fertility. Smoking negatively impacts fertility by reducing sperm quality, disrupting hormone production, and affecting egg quality. By quitting smoking, both partners can improve their chances of conceiving. Summary: B: Caffeine intake can affect fertility, so moderate consumption is recommended. C: Stress management is important for fertility, as stress can disrupt hormonal balance. D: High protein diets alone do not guarantee improved egg quality; a balanced diet is essential for fertility.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because basal body temperature rises 1 to 5 days after ovulation, indicating that ovulation has occurred. This is important for tracking fertility and planning conception. A is incorrect because basal body temperature is not used to determine estrogen levels in cervical mucus. C is incorrect because basal body temperature is not used to diagnose uterine pathology. D is incorrect because basal body temperature does not assess blockages in the uterine cavity or fallopian tubes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Autosomal dominant. In an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, the trait is passed down from generation to generation, affecting both males and females equally. This is indicated by the presence of the trait in every generation of the pedigree chart. In contrast, autosomal recessive traits would skip generations and require both parents to be carriers. X-linked recessive traits mainly affect males and skip generations. X-linked dominant traits would be present in every generation but would affect more females than males.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it demonstrates empathy, promotes open communication, and supports patient autonomy. By asking the patient to describe her feelings, the nurse can understand her emotional state, values, and beliefs, which are crucial in decision-making. This approach encourages shared decision-making and allows the nurse to provide individualized support. Choice A is incorrect because it is overly deterministic and does not consider individual circumstances. Choice B is incorrect as it simplifies the genetic risk calculation and overlooks the emotional aspect of decision-making. Choice C is incorrect as it may not respect the patient's autonomy and fails to address the emotional and ethical complexities involved in such a decision.