Question 1

The practitioner is evaluating a woman who is at high risk for an ectopic pregnancy. The β-hCG level is far above the level expected for an intrauterine pregnancy and there is no intrauterine sac seen on ultrasound. Which is the appropriate interpretation of the information?

Accepted Answer

A)  An ectopic pregnancy should be of high concern. 
B)  The findings could indicate a psuedogestational sac. 
C)  An intrauterine pregnancy is possible and likely to be very early. 
D)  The findings are insignificant and further testing needs completed. A

Question 2

The practitioner is conducting a transvaginal ultrasound to confirm the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy. The practitioner notes a small fetal pole with cardiac activity. What is the approximate gestational age?

Accepted Answer

A)  4 weeks gestation 
B)  5 weeks gestation 
C)  6 weeks gestation 
D)  7 weeks gestation C

Question 3

At 12-weeks' gestation, increased nuchal translucency is noted by ultrasound examination of the fetus. Which is the best interpretation of this finding?

Accepted Answer

A)  This is a common, normal variation noted in the early weeks. 
B)  This demonstrates an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities. 
C)  This is a sign indicating possible multiple gestations are present in utero. 
D)  This indicates a major aneuploidy condition is likely present in the fetus. B

Question 4

The practitioner is attempting to locate cardiac activity in the fetus during an ultrasound examination at approximately 5 ½ weeks gestation. Which is the recommended practice for the practitioner?

Accepted Answer

A)  Use M-mode to document the cardiac activity. 
B)  Use B-mode to document the cardiac activity. 
C)  Use spectral Doppler to record the cardiac activity. 
D)  Use the hand-held Doppler to record the cardiac activity.

Question 5

During the ultrasound examination in the early weeks of pregnancy, the practitioner notes several cystic areas within the uterus. Which is the most appropriate interpretation of this finding?

Accepted Answer

A)  The woman has a pregnancy with multiple gestations. 
B)  The practitioner should refer the woman to a neonatologist for care. 
C)  The practitioner needs to prepare the woman for preterm delivery. 
D)  The woman is likely experiencing a molar pregnancy.

Question 6

Which measurements does advanced biometry in the first trimester pregnancy provide? Select all that apply?

Accepted Answer

A)  The presence of a multiple gestational pregnancy. 
B)  The ability to recognize fetal abnormalities earlier. 
C)  The presence of varied fetal features related to race. 
D)  Indication of placenta previa and similar conditions. 
E)  A more reliable pregnancy dating than later measures.

Question 7

During an ultrasound examination, the practitioner notes a subchorionic hemorrhage (SCH). The fetal heart rate remains detectable at rates greater than 100 beats per minute. Which is the most appropriate interpretation of the findings?

Accepted Answer

A)  The SCH indicates a missed abortion. 
B)  The woman is likely going to experience fetal loss. 
C)  The SCH is likely an insignificant finding. 
D)  The woman is likely experiencing an ectopic pregnancy.

Question 8

The pregnant woman has had several ultrasound examinations. She asks "Which due date should I use? I've gotten different dates with each ultrasound." Which is the best response to her question?

Accepted Answer

A)  "The earliest ultrasound is the most accurate and should be used." 
B)  "We will use the midpoint of all the dates acquired as your due date." 
C)  "The later ultrasound is more accurate than earlier ones and will be used." 
D)  "Your last menstrual period will still give you the best estimation of date."

Question 9

The woman's examination reveals a positive β-hCG with levels consistent with pregnancy. Her ultrasound findings demonstrate a thickened endometrium and an empty uterus. Which is the best interpretation of these findings?

Accepted Answer

A)  The woman likely has an adherent placenta. 
B)  The woman likely has an ectopic pregnancy. 
C)  The woman has no signs of extrauterine pregnancy (EP). 
D)  The woman has a definite intrauterine pregnancy (IUP).

Question 10

The ultrasound examination reveals a yolk-sac of 8 mm at 8 weeks gestation. Which is the best interpretation of these results?

Accepted Answer

A)  The results suggest an abnormal pregnancy that requires more testing. 
B)  The woman should prepare for a spontaneous abortion within a day. 
C)  The pregnancy is demonstrating normal progression and embryo growth. 
D)  The practitioner should complete a transabdominal exam to confirm results.

Exam 4: Ultrasound in the First Trimester