Maternity: Exam 2 Tutoring Review Flashcards
(40 cards)
What is the purpose of the operculum during pregnancy?
The operculum is a mucus plug rich in immunoglobulins that acts as a barrier against bacterial invasion of the uterus.
Why do women experience a high degree of sexual interest and arousal during the second trimester?
Increased pelvic blood flow during the second trimester leads to heightened sexual interest and arousal.
What position is recommended to alleviate supine hypotensive syndrome?
The left lateral position is recommended to relieve pressure on major blood vessels.
What causes nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, and when does it usually peak?
High levels of hCG and estradiol cause nausea and vomiting, which typically peak around 9 weeks and usually subside by the end of the first trimester.
What is the cause of lordosis and back pain in pregnant women?
The increasing abdominal weight shifts the body’s center of gravity, causing lordosis and back pain.
What are presumptive signs of pregnancy?
Subjective signs experienced by the woman, including amenorrhea, fatigue, and breast changes.
What are probable signs of pregnancy?
Objective signs observed by the examiner, including Hegar sign, ballottement, and a positive pregnancy test.
What are positive signs of pregnancy?
Definitive signs of pregnancy, such as fetal heart tones and visualization of the fetus on ultrasound.
What is Hegar’s sign?
Softening of the lower uterine segment at 6 weeks gestation.
What is ballottement?
A technique where the fetus can be palpated by pressing a finger into the vagina and tapping gently.
How do you calculate the estimated date of birth (EDB) using Naegele’s rule?
First day of last menstrual period (LMP) – 3 months + 7 days.
If a woman’s LMP was February 14, 2024, what would her estimated due date be?
November 21, 2024.
What are the three phases of maternal attachment to the pregnancy?
Phase 1: Accepts the biologic fact of pregnancy.
Phase 2: Accepts the growing fetus as distinct from herself.
Phase 3: Prepares realistically for birth and parenting.
How does pregnancy affect the incidence of abuse?
There is an increased incidence of abuse for the first time or an increase in frequency.
What is the most common complication of pregnancy, and what are its risks?
Perinatal depression, which can lead to serious adverse effects if untreated.
Why is the initial prenatal visit more detailed than follow-up visits?
It includes a thorough history, risk assessment, and baseline measurements.
At what weeks is the Group Beta Strep (GBS) test performed, and what is the treatment if positive?
It is performed at 35-37 weeks, and if positive, prophylactic antibiotics are given before birth.
What is the purpose of a doula?
A doula provides physical and emotional support during labor and birth.
What is a normal result for a biophysical profile (BPP)?
A score of 8-10 indicates normal amniotic fluid volume and good fetal oxygenation.
What is a concerning result for a fetal movement count (kick count), and what should be done?
Less than 3 kicks in 1 hour warrants further evaluation by a nonstress test (NST).
What defines gestational hypertension?
Hypertension (BP >140/90) after 20 weeks gestation without other symptoms, resolving after birth.
What additional symptoms indicate preeclampsia?
Proteinuria and symptoms such as thrombocytopenia, impaired liver function, renal insufficiency, pulmonary edema, or cerebral/visual disturbances.
What is HELLP syndrome?
Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, Low Platelets.
What medication is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia, and what is its therapeutic range?
Magnesium sulfate, with a therapeutic range of 4-7 mg/dL.