ATI RN
Atrium Health Womens Care Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which clinical conditions are associated with increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of maternal fetal monitoring, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels can provide valuable information about the health of the fetus. In this question, the correct answer is C) Twin gestation. Twin gestation is associated with increased levels of AFP due to the presence of more than one fetus. Each fetus produces AFP, leading to elevated levels in the maternal bloodstream. This is a clinically relevant point to consider during maternal fetal monitoring as it can impact the interpretation of AFP levels and subsequent management decisions. Regarding the incorrect options: A) Down syndrome: Down syndrome is not directly associated with increased AFP levels. Instead, it is commonly associated with abnormal levels of other markers such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). B) Molar pregnancy: Molar pregnancy is characterized by abnormal growth of trophoblastic tissue and is associated with extremely high levels of hCG, not AFP. D) Incorrect gestational age assessment of a normal fetus: While gestational age can influence AFP levels, an incorrect assessment would not lead to elevated AFP levels. It is the presence of multiple fetuses, as in twin gestation, that is directly related to increased AFP levels. Understanding the factors influencing AFP levels in maternal serum is crucial for healthcare providers involved in maternal fetal monitoring. This knowledge informs proper interpretation of test results, leading to accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of pregnancy-related conditions.
Question 2 of 5
When assessing the psychological adjustment of an 8-week gravida, which of the following would the nurse expect to see signs of?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In assessing the psychological adjustment of an 8-week gravida, the nurse would expect to see signs of ambivalence. Ambivalence refers to having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about the pregnancy, which is common in early stages as the woman adjusts to the idea of becoming a mother. This uncertainty and conflicting emotions are typical during this period. Option B, depression, is less likely at this early stage of pregnancy unless there are pre-existing mental health issues. Pregnancy-induced depression typically occurs later in pregnancy or postpartum. Option C, anxiety, is common in pregnancy but may not be the primary psychological adjustment seen at 8 weeks unless it is severe or persistent. Option D, ecstasy, is not expected as extreme happiness or euphoria is not typically associated with early pregnancy, especially when considering the physical and emotional changes the woman is experiencing. Educationally, understanding the psychological aspects of pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to provide holistic care. Recognizing ambivalence as a common emotion early in pregnancy allows nurses to offer support, education, and counseling to help women navigate their feelings and adjust to the changes ahead. It also emphasizes the importance of non-judgmental care and creating a supportive environment for pregnant individuals.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse working in an outpatient obstetric office assesses four primigravid clients. Which of the client findings should the nurse highlight for the physician? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, option A is the correct answer that the nurse should highlight for the physician. At 17 weeks' gestation, feeling fetal movement is an important milestone in pregnancy. The absence of fetal movement could indicate a potential issue that needs further evaluation to ensure the well-being of the fetus. Option B, fundal height at the umbilicus at 24 weeks' gestation, is within the normal range for that gestational age and does not raise immediate concerns. Option C, excessive salivation at 27 weeks' gestation, is likely due to hormonal changes in pregnancy and typically does not pose a significant risk to the mother or baby. Option D, experiencing uterine cramping at 34 weeks' gestation, could be a normal part of the third trimester as the body prepares for labor. However, persistent or severe cramping would warrant further assessment. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of monitoring fetal movements as a vital sign of fetal well-being during pregnancy. It emphasizes the role of healthcare providers in recognizing deviations from normal findings and taking appropriate actions to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and baby. Understanding these key indicators is crucial for nurses working in obstetric settings to provide comprehensive care to pregnant clients.
Question 4 of 5
A woman states that she frequently awakens with 'painful leg cramps' during the night. Which of the following assessments should the nurse make?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct assessment the nurse should make is A) Dietary evaluation. Leg cramps can be caused by various factors, including electrolyte imbalances like low levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium. By conducting a dietary evaluation, the nurse can assess the woman's intake of these essential minerals and identify any deficiencies that could be contributing to the leg cramps. Option B) Goodell’s sign and option C) Hegar’s sign are both physical assessments used in obstetrics and gynecology to evaluate cervical changes during pregnancy, which are not relevant to the woman's complaint of leg cramps. Option D) Posture evaluation is also not directly related to the issue of leg cramps upon waking. In an educational context, understanding the importance of conducting a thorough assessment is crucial for nurses to provide holistic care to their patients. By choosing the correct assessment, the nurse can address the root cause of the woman's leg cramps and provide appropriate interventions to alleviate her symptoms and improve her quality of life.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is providing anticipatory guidance to a woman in her second trimester regarding signs/symptoms that are within normal limits during the latter half of the pregnancy.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) During the third trimester I may experience frequent urination. This is because, as the pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder, leading to increased frequency of urination. This is a common and normal symptom in the later stages of pregnancy. Option B) During the third trimester I may experience heartburn is incorrect because heartburn is more commonly experienced in the second trimester due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus on the stomach. Option C) During the third trimester I may experience nagging backaches is incorrect as backaches are common throughout pregnancy due to the shifting center of gravity and increased strain on the back, not just limited to the third trimester. Option D) During the third trimester I may experience persistent headache is incorrect because persistent headaches are not typically considered a normal symptom of pregnancy and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider for underlying causes. Educationally, understanding the normal physiological changes and common discomforts during pregnancy is crucial for providing anticipatory guidance and reassurance to pregnant women. It helps nurses and healthcare providers support expectant mothers in managing their symptoms and differentiating between normal experiences and potentially concerning issues.