Questions And Verified Solutions With Rationales
Maternal–Newborn Nursing Exam Secrets (2nd Edition)
Flashcards Q1–25
1. Which hormone is responsible for uterine contractions during labor?
A. Progesterone
B. Estrogen
C. Prolactin
D. Oxytocin
Rationale:
Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and is released by the posterior pituitary during labor and
breastfeeding.
2. A positive Goodell’s sign indicates:
A. Cervical dilation
B. Fetal descent
C. Softening of the cervix
D. Increased uterine tone
Rationale:
Goodell’s sign is a probable sign of pregnancy referring to cervical softening due to increased
vascularity.
3. Which structure produces progesterone during early pregnancy?
A. Placenta
B. Pituitary gland
C. Corpus luteum
D. Ovaries
Rationale:
The corpus luteum maintains progesterone production until the placenta takes over around weeks 8–
10.
4. Which laboratory value confirms pregnancy?
, A. Elevated estrogen
B. Amenorrhea
C. Uterine enlargement
D. Detection of hCG in blood
Rationale:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) detected in blood is a positive sign of pregnancy.
5. Which maternal adaptation occurs in the cardiovascular system during pregnancy?
A. Decreased cardiac output
B. Decreased blood volume
C. Increased cardiac output
D. Increased blood pressure
Rationale:
Cardiac output and blood volume increase to meet maternal and fetal metabolic demands.
6. Which position best promotes placental perfusion during pregnancy?
A. Supine
B. Prone
C. High Fowler’s
D. Left lateral
Rationale:
The left lateral position prevents vena cava compression, improving blood flow to the placenta.
7. Which sign indicates the onset of true labor?
A. Irregular contractions
B. Contractions relieved by rest
C. Lower back pain only
D. Progressive cervical dilation
Rationale:
True labor is characterized by regular contractions that cause cervical dilation and effacement.
8. Which stage of labor involves delivery of the placenta?
A. First stage
B. Second stage
C. Third stage
D. Fourth stage
Rationale:
The third stage of labor begins after delivery of the infant and ends with expulsion of the placenta.