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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The mother’s size does not significantly impact the effects of teratogen exposure on fetal development. Teratogens are substances that cause congenital abnormalities in a developing fetus, and their impact is more related to the timing, duration, and type of exposure rather than the mother’s physical characteristics.
Choice B rationale
The timing and duration of exposure are critical factors in determining the effects of teratogen exposure. Teratogens can cause the most harm during specific periods of fetal development, particularly during the first trimester when organogenesis occurs. The duration of exposure also influences the severity of the effects, with prolonged exposure leading to more significant developmental issues.
Choice C rationale
The type of teratogen is also important, as different teratogens can cause different types of congenital abnormalities. For example, alcohol can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, while certain medications can cause neural tube defects. However, the timing and duration of exposure are generally considered more critical factors.
Choice D rationale
The father’s health does not directly impact the effects of teratogen exposure on fetal development. Teratogens affect the fetus through the mother’s exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Fetal movements, known as quickening, are typically felt by the mother between 16 and 25 weeks of pregnancy, not specifically at week 245.
Choice B rationale
The baby’s heartbeat can be detected by 10-12 weeks of pregnancy using a Doppler ultrasound device. This is an important milestone in fetal development and prenatal care
.
Choice C rationale
Lanugo, the fine hair covering the fetus, usually appears around 20 weeks of pregnancy and starts to disappear closer to the end of the third trimester, not specifically by week 355.
Choice D rationale
The sex of the baby is determined at conception, but it can be detected via ultrasound around 18-20 weeks of pregnancy, not by week 85.