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","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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Lisinopril is not a beta blocker; it is an ACE inhibitor. Beta blockers, such as metoprolol, are generally considered safer during pregnancy compared to ACE inhibitors. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on your heart and blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure. However, they are not without risks and should be used under medical supervision during pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. ACE inhibitors can cause fetal renal dysfunction, oligohydramnios, and even fetal death. Therefore, it is essential to discuss alternative medications that are safer during pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
This statement is incorrect because ACE inhibitors, including lisinopril, are not safe to continue during pregnancy. They pose significant risks to the fetus, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Lisinopril is not an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB); it is an ACE inhibitor. ARBs, like ACE inhibitors, are also contraindicated during pregnancy due to similar risks of fetal toxicity and adverse outcomes.