ATI RN
Common Complications in Early Pregnancy Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of these statements best describes the action of the hormone progesterone during pregnancy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Progesterone is a crucial hormone during pregnancy, and option D, which states that progesterone maintains the endometrium around the fetus, is the correct statement. Progesterone plays a key role in supporting the early stages of pregnancy by maintaining the thickened endometrial lining, which provides a nourishing environment for the developing fetus. Option A is incorrect because progesterone does not produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); rather, hCG is produced by the placenta. Option B is also incorrect as duct formation in the breast is primarily stimulated by estrogen, not progesterone. Option C is inaccurate as progesterone actually helps to maintain the endometrial wall, rather than promoting its sloughing. In an educational context, understanding the functions of hormones like progesterone in early pregnancy is essential for healthcare providers, nurses, and students specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. This knowledge is crucial for providing optimal care to pregnant individuals and recognizing and managing complications that may arise during this critical period.
Question 2 of 5
Which finding is considered normal and expected when the nurse is performing a physical examination on a pregnant woman?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a palpable, full thyroid is a normal finding during pregnancy. Significant diffuse enlargement of the thyroid is abnormal and indicates various conditions. Pale mucous membranes may suggest anemia, and edema in one lower leg with pain could indicate deep vein thrombosis.
Question 3 of 5
When the nurse is assessing the deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) on a woman who is 32 weeks pregnant, which of these would be considered a normal finding on a 0 to 4+ scale?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In early pregnancy, changes in the body can affect deep tendon reflexes (DTRs). The correct answer is B) 2+. A normal DTR response in pregnancy is typically 2+ on a 0 to 4+ scale. This indicates a normal response without hyperactivity or diminished reflexes. Option A) Absent DTRs would be considered abnormal and could indicate issues such as nerve damage or disease. Option C) 4+ indicates hyperactive reflexes, which are not normal and could be a sign of certain neurological conditions. Option D) brisk reflexes and the presence of clonus suggest hyperreflexia, which is also abnormal in pregnancy. Educationally, understanding the normal changes in pregnancy, including DTR assessments, is crucial for nurses caring for pregnant women. Knowing what is normal helps in identifying potential complications early and providing appropriate care. Regular monitoring and assessment of DTRs can aid in detecting any abnormalities promptly, ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is palpating the fundus of a pregnant woman. Which statement about palpation of the fundus is true?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because after 20 weeks gestation, the number of centimeters should approximate the number of weeks gestation. This helps in assessing the growth and development of the fetus within the uterus. The other choices do not accurately reflect the true nature of fundal palpation during pregnancy.
Question 5 of 5
A woman at 25 weeks gestation comes to the clinic for her prenatal visit. The nurse notices that her face and lower extremities are swollen, and her blood pressure is 154/94 mm Hg. The woman states that she has had headaches and blurry vision but thought she was just tired. What should the nurse suspect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The symptoms described by the woman, including elevated blood pressure, proteinuria, headaches, and visual changes are classic signs of preeclampsia. Eclampsia is characterized by seizures, which are not mentioned in the scenario. Diabetes type 1 and preterm labor do not present with the same symptoms as described.