Foetal growth

Question 1

Describe changes in the proportion of the foetus made up by the head

Answer 1

Begins at 50%, Later becomes 25% as trunk and limbs catch up

Question 2

Describe symmetrical growth restriction

Answer 2

Poor nutrition during the early pregnancy, Head and body remain small

Question 3

Describe asymmetrical growth restriction

Answer 3

Poor nutrition during the late pregnancy, Head spared

Question 4

Describe the functioning of the foetal lungs during pregnancy

Answer 4

Filled with fluid, Some breathing movement

Question 5

Actions taken if pre-term birth is expected

Answer 5

Give glucocorticoids to increase surfactant production

Question 6

Function of the foetal kidneys

Answer 6

Produce amniotic fluid

Question 7

Causes of oligohydramnios

Answer 7

Reduced renal function

Question 8

Causes of polyhydramnios

Answer 8

Inability to swallow

Question 9

Range for foetal heart rate

Answer 9

120-160

Question 10

Partial pressure of oxygen in a foetus

Answer 10

4.5KPa

Question 11

Describe the double bohr shift

Answer 11

Carbon dioxide moves from the foetus, raising pH, to the mother, lower pH

Question 12

When the foetus first starts to move

Answer 12

Week 17

Question 13

State how growth of the foetus can be assessed

Answer 13

Palpating the fundus of the uterus and measuring the distance to the pubic symphysis

Question 14

State how a pregnancy can be aged

Answer 14

Biparietal diameter, Crown rump length, Abdominal diameter, Femur length