A nurse is caring for a primigravida who asks about the function of the placenta.The nurse responds correctly when explaining which of the following are functions of the placenta?
Cushions fetus from maternal movement.
Provides thermoregulation.
Metabolic and gas exchange.
Provides a sterile environment.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
The placenta does not cushion the fetus from maternal movement. Instead, the amniotic fluid within the amniotic sac provides cushioning and protection to the fetus from external forces and maternal movements.
Choice B rationale
The placenta does not provide thermoregulation. Thermoregulation is primarily managed by the mother’s body. The placenta’s main functions are related to nutrient and gas exchange, hormone production, and waste removal.
Choice C rationale
The placenta is responsible for metabolic and gas exchange. It provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus while removing waste products from the fetal blood. This exchange occurs through the placental barrier, which separates maternal and fetal blood.
Choice D rationale
The placenta does not provide a sterile environment. The amniotic sac and its fluid help maintain a sterile environment for the fetus. The placenta’s role is more focused on nutrient and gas exchange, hormone production, and waste removal.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The uterus can indeed increase in size by 20 times its non-pregnant size. This significant expansion is necessary to accommodate the growing fetus and the increased blood supply required during pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
While the weight of the uterus does increase significantly during pregnancy, from about 100 grams to approximately 1,000 grams, this statement does not directly address the client’s concern about the uterus’s ability to stretch.
Choice C rationale
About 25% of the increased capacity of the uterus is related to uteroplacental content, but this does not fully explain the uterus’s ability to stretch to accommodate a full-term baby.
Choice D rationale
The increase in uterus size during pregnancy is not solely related to amniotic fluid volume. The uterus itself grows and stretches significantly to accommodate the developing fetus.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This response is dismissive and does not address the client’s feelings. It may make the client feel invalidated and unsupported.
Choice B rationale
This response acknowledges that ambivalent feelings are common in early pregnancy. It normalizes the client’s feelings and provides reassurance, which is appropriate and supportive.
Choice C rationale
This response imposes an expectation of happiness on the client, which may make her feel guilty or inadequate for not feeling happy. It does not validate her current feelings.
Choice D rationale
This response redirects the client’s feelings to another person (her mother) rather than addressing them directly. It may not be helpful if the client does not have a supportive relationship with her mother.