Which aspect of fetal diagnostic testing is most important to expectant parents?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Safety of the fetus. Expectant parents prioritize the safety of their unborn child above all else. Ensuring that the fetal diagnostic testing is safe for the fetus is crucial in making informed decisions about the pregnancy. Other choices are less important as safety directly impacts the well-being of the fetus, while the duration, cost, and physical discomfort are secondary considerations in comparison.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitoring uterine activity. After an amniocentesis, it is crucial to monitor uterine activity to detect any signs of preterm labor or uterine contractions. This helps in identifying any potential complications early on and ensures prompt intervention if needed. A: Pushing fluids by mouth is important for hydration but not directly related to optimal nursing care after an amniocentesis. C: Placing the patient in a supine position for 2 hours is not recommended as it may increase the risk of hypotension and discomfort for the patient. D: Applying a pressure dressing to the puncture site is not necessary after an amniocentesis as the risk of bleeding is minimal and pressure dressings may increase the risk of infection.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of initiating contractions in a contraction stress test (CST) is to apply a stressful stimulus to the fetus to assess its response to stress, mimicking the stress of labor. This helps evaluate fetal well-being by monitoring the fetal heart rate during contractions. A: Increasing placental blood flow is not the primary purpose of CST. B: Identifying fetal acceleration patterns is not the main goal of CST. C: Determining the degree of fetal activity is not the primary objective of CST. The correct answer is D as it reflects the main purpose of initiating contractions in a CST.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because positioning the patient for comfort and adjusting the tocotransducer belt to locate fetal heart rate are essential steps in preparing a pregnant patient for a nonstress test (NST). This allows for proper monitoring of fetal heart rate without interference. A: Having the patient void prior to the test is not necessary for an NST as a full bladder does not interfere with the results. B: Maintaining NPO status is not required for an NST, as it does not involve any invasive procedures that would necessitate fasting. D: Preparing an infusion pump with oxytocin is not part of the standard preparation for an NST and is not needed for evaluation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Refer to the physician for additional testing. When a triple-screen test is positive in a pregnant patient, it indicates an increased risk of certain conditions such as neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities. Therefore, the appropriate course of action is to refer the patient to a physician for further diagnostic testing, such as amniocentesis or ultrasound, to confirm or rule out these conditions. Choice A is incorrect because a positive result on a triple-screen test does not indicate that results are normal; it suggests the need for further investigation. Choice C is incorrect because validating the results with the lab facility does not address the need for additional diagnostic testing. Choice D is incorrect because waiting 2 weeks to repeat the test and returning for a regular prenatal visit may delay necessary interventions or treatment for the patient.