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","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Nausea is a common symptom during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. It is often referred to as morning sickness, although it can occur at any time of the day. The client’s report of nausea almost every day for the last two months, but lasting for a shorter period of the day, is consistent with typical pregnancy-related nausea.
Choice B rationale
Malodorous vaginal discharge is not a common or expected physiological change during pregnancy. It may indicate an infection or other medical condition that requires further evaluation and treatment.
Choice C rationale
Increased frequency of urination is a common symptom during pregnancy. It occurs due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder. The client’s report of voiding more frequently without pain is consistent with normal physiological changes during pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Fundal height measurement is used to assess fetal growth and development. At 18 weeks of gestation, the fundal height is typically around 18 cm, which corresponds to the number of weeks of pregnancy. This finding is consistent with expected physiological changes during pregnancy.
Choice E rationale
The darkened line of skin noted midline on the abdomen, known as the linea nigra, is a common physiological change during pregnancy. It is caused by increased pigmentation and is a normal finding.
Choice F rationale
A dry, reddened patch of skin below the knee bilaterally is not a common or expected physiological change during pregnancy. It may indicate a dermatological condition or other medical issue that requires further evaluation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Striae gravidarum, or stretch marks, are a common occurrence during pregnancy due to the rapid stretching of the skin. They are not a medical emergency and do not require immediate attention from a healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale
During pregnancy, the nipples and areola typically become darker, not paler, as the breasts enlarge. This change is due to hormonal influences and increased blood flow to the area.
Choice C rationale
Fetal movement, also known as quickening, is usually felt by the mother between 18 to 25 weeks of gestation, not as early as 10 weeks. At 10 weeks, the fetus is still too small for its movements to be felt by the mother.
Choice D rationale
Some nausea and vomiting, known as morning sickness, is normal during pregnancy. However, if a pregnant woman is unable to keep food or water down, it is important to contact a healthcare provider to ensure she and the baby are receiving adequate nutrition and hydration.