Exam 13: Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy

A first-time mother at 18 weeks of gestation is in for her regularly scheduled prenatal visit.The client tells the nurse that she is afraid that she is going into premature labor because she is beginning to have regular contractions.The nurse explains that these are Braxton Hicks contractions.What other information is important for the nurse to share?

Which statement best describes the rationale for the physiologic anemia that occurs during pregnancy?

A client is seen at the clinic at 14 weeks of gestation for a follow-up appointment.At which level does the nurse expect to palpate the fundus?

Numerous changes in the integumentary system occur during pregnancy.Which change persists after birth?

A pregnant client tells her nurse that she is worried about the blotchy,brownish coloring over her cheeks,nose,and forehead.The nurse can reassure her that this is a normal condition related to hormonal changes.What is the correct term for this integumentary finding?

Which presumptive sign or symptom of pregnancy would a client experience who is approximately 10 weeks of gestation?

Which hormone is essential for maintaining pregnancy?

The diagnosis of pregnancy is based on which positive signs of pregnancy? (Select all that apply. )

Why might it be more difficult to diagnose appendicitis during pregnancy?

A patient in her first trimester complains of nausea and vomiting.She asks,"Why does this happen?" What is the nurse's best response?

The musculoskeletal system adapts to the changes that occur throughout the pregnancy.Which musculoskeletal alteration should the client expect?

Cardiac output increases up to 50% by the 32nd week of pregnancy.What is the rationale for this change?

Some pregnant clients may report changes in their voice and impaired hearing.What should the nurse explain to the client concerning these findings?

Of which physiologic alteration of the uterus during pregnancy is it important for the nurse to alert the patient?

Which finding in the urinalysis of a pregnant woman is considered a variation of normal?

Pregnancy is a hypercoagulable state in which women are at a fivefold to sixfold increased risk for thromboembolic disease.The tendency for blood to clot is greater,attributable to an increase in various clotting factors.Which of these come into play during pregnancy? (Select all that apply. )

What is the correct term used to describe the mucous plug that forms in the endocervical canal?

A woman is in her seventh month of pregnancy.She reports episodes of nasal congestion and occasional epistaxis.Which statement best describes why this may be happening to this client?

The nurse is providing education to a client regarding the normal changes of the breasts during pregnancy.Which statement regarding these changes is correct?

Which gastrointestinal alteration of pregnancy is a normal finding?