You are observing for fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations in a nonstress test (NST) for a woman who is 26 weeks pregnant. The average FHR baseline is 145 to 155 beats per minute (bpm). Within 20 minutes, the FHR accelerated to 165 bpm six times, for 10 to 15 seconds. How should you interpret this information?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, option C is the correct interpretation of the fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations observed during the nonstress test (NST) for a woman at 26 weeks gestation. The key factor here is that the FHR accelerated by 10 bpm for 10 to 15 seconds, which indicates a reassuring response. Option A is incorrect because the presence of accelerations is a positive sign, so additional monitoring may not be necessary. Option B is incorrect as it states there are too few accelerations, which is not the case in this scenario. Option D is also incorrect because fetal inactivity is not the reason behind the FHR accelerations observed. Educationally, it's crucial to understand how to interpret FHR patterns during monitoring as it provides valuable information about fetal well-being. Recognizing reassuring patterns like accelerations helps clinicians make informed decisions about the health of the fetus. This knowledge is vital for healthcare providers involved in prenatal care to ensure appropriate management and interventions when needed.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, option C is the correct choice because providing emotional support to the family during genetic counseling is a crucial nursing function. Genetic health care involves complex information and decisions that can have profound emotional impacts on families. Nurses play a vital role in supporting families through the counseling process, helping them understand the information provided, cope with emotional reactions, and make informed decisions about genetic testing and treatment options. Option A is incorrect because genetic disorders do not affect people equally across socioeconomic backgrounds, races, and ethnic groups. Health disparities exist in access to genetic services and resources, leading to unequal outcomes for individuals with genetic conditions. Option B is also incorrect because genetic health care is focused on both populations and individuals. While population-based approaches are important for public health initiatives, individualized care and counseling are essential components of genetic health services. Option D is incorrect as well because taking genetic histories is not limited to large universities and medical centers. Nurses in various healthcare settings, including community clinics and primary care offices, routinely collect and assess genetic information to provide personalized care and education to patients and families. In an educational context, understanding the role of nurses in genetic health care and the importance of providing emotional support during genetic counseling can help students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver compassionate and effective care to individuals and families facing genetic health challenges. It highlights the holistic approach to patient care and the critical role nurses play in supporting individuals through complex healthcare decisions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In addressing the question on chromosome abnormalities in fetal development, it is crucial for nurses to understand that option B, "Abnormalities of number are the leading cause of pregnancy loss," is the correct choice. This option is accurate because aneuploidy, which refers to abnormalities in the number of chromosomes, is indeed the primary cause of pregnancy loss, as these abnormalities often result in non-viable embryos. Options A, C, and D are incorrect for several reasons. Option A stating that chromosome abnormalities occur in approximately 10% of newborns is incorrect, as the actual incidence is much lower. Down syndrome, as mentioned in option C, is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, a numerical abnormality, not a structural one. Option D is incorrect because unbalanced translocations can lead to significant abnormalities that a child may not necessarily outgrow. Educationally, understanding chromosome abnormalities is vital for nurses caring for pregnant women and infants. Recognizing the impact of aneuploidy on pregnancy outcomes can help nurses provide appropriate support and guidance to families facing such challenges. By knowing the correct information regarding chromosome abnormalities, nurses can offer comprehensive care and accurate information to patients, enhancing their ability to provide quality care throughout the prenatal and postnatal periods.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In fetal development, meconium is the first stool passed by a newborn and is typically a greenish-black, tarry substance. The correct answer is A) Fetal intestines. Meconium is formed in the fetal intestines as a result of the fetus swallowing and processing amniotic fluid. It accumulates in the intestines throughout gestation and is usually passed after birth. Option B) Fetal kidneys is incorrect because meconium is not produced by the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood to form urine. Option C) Amniotic fluid is incorrect because meconium is not produced by the amniotic fluid itself. While the fetus swallows amniotic fluid, meconium is formed in the intestines. Option D) The placenta is incorrect because meconium is not produced by the placenta. The placenta is an organ that provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removes waste products. Understanding the origin of meconium is crucial for nurses caring for laboring women as the presence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid can indicate fetal distress and may require additional monitoring or interventions during labor and delivery. Being knowledgeable about fetal development helps healthcare providers provide optimal care for both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) 2:01. The L/S ratio, which stands for lecithin to sphingomyelin ratio, is an important marker used to assess fetal lung maturity. In the amniotic fluid, the presence of lecithin, a phospholipid produced by type II pneumocytes in the fetal lung, increases as the fetus matures. Sphingomyelin, another phospholipid, remains relatively constant. A ratio of 2:1 or higher indicates mature fetal lungs where surfactant production is sufficient to support gas exchange after birth. Thus, a higher L/S ratio reflects a lower risk of respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn. Now, let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: A) 1.4:1 - This ratio is lower than the ideal 2:1 ratio, indicating insufficient lung maturity. B) 1.8:1 - While closer to the ideal ratio, this value still falls short of the 2:1 benchmark for optimal lung maturity. D) 1:1 - This ratio suggests immature lungs with a higher risk of respiratory distress syndrome due to inadequate surfactant production. Understanding the L/S ratio is crucial for obstetricians, neonatologists, and other healthcare professionals involved in managing pregnancies and newborn care. It helps in predicting and preparing for potential respiratory complications in preterm infants. By grasping the significance of this ratio, healthcare providers can make informed decisions regarding the timing and management of deliveries to optimize neonatal outcomes.