A nurse is discussing fetal circulation with a group of nursing students.The ductus venosus, foramen ovale, and ductus arteriosus are key factors in fetal circulation.Which of the following explains the purpose of these shunts in fetal circulation?
To bypass the lungs and direct oxygenated blood to the brain and body.
To ensure proper development of the fetal heart.
To regulate blood pressure in the fetus.
To facilitate gas exchange in the lungs.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The ductus venosus, foramen ovale, and ductus arteriosus are shunts in fetal circulation that bypass the lungs and liver, directing oxygenated blood to the brain and body. The foramen ovale allows blood to flow from the right atrium to the left atrium, bypassing the lungs. The ductus arteriosus connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta, allowing blood to bypass the lungs. The ductus venosus shunts blood from the umbilical vein to the inferior vena cava, bypassing the liver.
Choice B rationale
This choice is incorrect because the primary purpose of these shunts is not to ensure proper development of the fetal heart. While they do play a role in directing blood flow, their main function is to bypass the non-functional fetal lungs and liver.
Choice C rationale
This choice is incorrect because the shunts are not primarily involved in regulating blood pressure in the fetus. Their main function is to direct oxygenated blood to vital organs like the brain and heart.
Choice D rationale
This choice is incorrect because the shunts bypass the lungs, which are not yet functional in the fetus. Gas exchange occurs in the placenta, not the fetal lungs.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) can result in a smaller fundal height measurement than expected for gestational age. This condition indicates that the fetus is not growing at the normal rate inside the womb.
Choice B rationale
A fundal height measurement of 19 centimeters at 22 weeks of gestation is not consistent with the estimated gestational age by LMP. Typically, the fundal height in centimeters should be approximately equal to the number of weeks of gestation.
Choice C rationale
Fetal anomalies can affect the size and growth of the fetus, leading to discrepancies in fundal height measurements. This could result in a smaller or larger than expected measurement.
Choice D rationale
Polyhydramnios, or excessive amniotic fluid, would typically result in a larger fundal height measurement than expected for gestational age. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice E rationale
Miscalculation of the due date can lead to discrepancies in fundal height measurements. If the gestational age is miscalculated, the fundal height may not match the expected measurement for the given weeks of gestation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing additional information about the disorder is appropriate as it helps the couple understand the condition better and prepare for the future. This information can include the nature of the disorder, potential complications, and available treatments or interventions.
Choice B rationale
Referring the couple to a disorder-specific support group is also appropriate. Support groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community for families facing similar challenges. This can help the couple cope with the diagnosis and connect with others who have similar experiences.
Choice C rationale
Determining whether termination has been considered is inappropriate because the couple has already decided to continue the pregnancy. Bringing up termination at this point can be distressing and may undermine their decision. The nurse should respect their choice and focus on providing support and information relevant to continuing the pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Explaining that they may experience grief, which is normal, is appropriate. Grief is a common response to learning about a serious genetic disorder in a fetus, and normalizing these feelings can help the couple process their emotions and seek appropriate support.