NUR 2513 Maternal-Child Nursing Exam 1 | Rasmussen University | 2026-2027
NUR 2513 / NUR2513: Maternal-Child
Nursing Exam 1
Latest 2026/2027 | Rasmussen University
Comprehensive Exam with Complete Answers and Rationales
Total
75 Exam Type Multiple Choice (A-D)
Questions
Cognitive 25% Recall, 55% Application, 20%
Sections 8
Levels Analysis
Section 1: Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology (Q1-Q10)
Section 2: Fetal Development and Genetics (Q11-Q18)
Section 3: Prenatal Care and Assessment (Q19-Q30)
Section 4: Maternal Nutrition and Health Promotion (Q31-Q38)
Section 5: Fetal Assessment and Surveillance (Q39-Q45)
Section 6: Labor and Delivery Processes (Q46-Q58)
Section 7: Postpartum Adaptations and Newborn Transition (Q59-Q68)
Section 8: Integrated Clinical Scenarios and Priority Setting (Q69-Q75)
Page 1
, NUR 2513 Maternal-Child Nursing Exam 1 | Rasmussen University | 2026-2027
Section 1: Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology
Female Reproductive System, Menstrual Cycle, Hormonal Changes, and Uterine Adaptations
Q1: A nursing student is reviewing the female reproductive system. Which structure is the primary site of fertilization,
and where does it typically occur within that structure?
A. The fundus of the uterus, where the blastocyst implants
B. The ampulla of the fallopian tube, within 24 hours of ovulation [CORRECT]
C. The cervix, where sperm meets the ovum during intercourse
D. The fimbriae of the fallopian tube, during the follicular phase
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Fertilization occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube within 24 hours of ovulation. The fimbriae sweep the ovum into
the tube, and sperm travel through the cervix and uterus to reach the ampulla. The fundus (Option A) is the site of implantation, not
fertilization. The cervix (Option C) is the passage for sperm but not the fertilization site. The fimbriae (Option D) capture the ovum
but fertilization occurs in the ampulla. This is a foundational concept in NUR 2513 reproductive anatomy.
Q2: A pregnant patient at 32 weeks gestation asks the nurse why she is experiencing irregular, painless contractions.
Which response by the nurse is most accurate?
A. "These are early labor contractions and you should go to the hospital immediately."
B. "These are Braxton Hicks contractions, which are irregular and painless; they
prepare your uterus for labor." [CORRECT]
C. "These contractions indicate your cervix is dilating and delivery may occur soon."
D. "These are caused by dehydration and will stop once you drink more water."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, painless contractions that prepare the uterus for labor but do not cause cervical
dilation. They are a normal finding beginning in the second trimester and increase in frequency as pregnancy progresses. Early labor
contractions (Option A) would be regular and progressive. Cervical dilation (Option C) does not occur with Braxton Hicks. While
dehydration can increase Braxton Hicks (Option D), it is not the sole or primary cause, and stating they will 'stop' oversimplifies the
physiology.
Q3: A nurse is teaching a group of nursing students about the hormonal changes of pregnancy. Which hormone is
secreted by trophoblast cells, maintains the corpus luteum, and is the basis for pregnancy testing?
A. Human Placental Lactogen (hPL)
B. Relaxin
C. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) [CORRECT]
D. Progesterone
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: hCG is secreted by trophoblast cells, maintains the corpus luteum (which continues producing progesterone to sustain the
pregnancy until the placenta takes over), and is detected in pregnancy tests. hPL (Option A) modifies maternal metabolism to
support fetal growth. Relaxin (Option B) softens connective tissue and prepares the pelvis for delivery. Progesterone (Option D) is
produced by the corpus luteum initially and later by the placenta, but is not the hormone detected by pregnancy tests. NUR 2513
emphasizes hCG as the key biochemical marker of pregnancy.
Q4: A patient at 28 weeks gestation asks the nurse about the changes in her uterus during pregnancy. Which statement
by the nurse is correct regarding uterine changes?
A. The uterus decreases in weight during pregnancy due to hormonal effects.
Page 2
, NUR 2513 Maternal-Child Nursing Exam 1 | Rasmussen University | 2026-2027
B. The uterus enlarges from approximately 70g to about 1000g by term. [CORRECT]
C. Blood flow to the uterus decreases as the pregnancy progresses.
D. The endometrium is shed monthly throughout the pregnancy.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The uterus enlarges from approximately 70g pre-pregnancy to about 1000g by term, and blood flow increases
significantly to support the growing fetus. The uterus does not decrease in weight (Option A). Endometrial shedding (menstruation)
ceases during pregnancy because hCG maintains the corpus luteum and progesterone sustains the endometrium (Option D). Blood
flow increases, not decreases (Option C). These uterine adaptations are core content in NUR 2513 maternal physiology.
Q5: A nursing instructor is explaining the menstrual cycle to students. Which event occurs during the luteal phase of the
menstrual cycle?
A. FSH stimulates follicle maturation and estrogen rises
B. An LH surge triggers the release of the ovum from the follicle
C. Progesterone rises and prepares the endometrium for possible implantation
[CORRECT]
D. The endometrium is shed if fertilization has not occurred
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: During the luteal phase, the corpus luteum produces progesterone, which prepares the endometrium for possible
implantation. FSH stimulating follicle maturation occurs during the follicular phase (Option A). The LH surge and ovulation occur at
mid-cycle, marking the transition from follicular to luteal phase (Option B). Endometrial shedding (menstruation) occurs if
fertilization does not happen, marking the start of a new cycle, not the luteal phase (Option D). Understanding these phases is
essential for NUR 2513 competency in reproductive physiology.
Q6: A nurse is reviewing the layers of the uterus with a pregnant patient. Which layer of the uterine wall is shed during
menstruation and provides the site for implantation?
A. Perimetrium
B. Myometrium
C. Endometrium [CORRECT]
D. Decidua basalis
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The endometrium is the innermost layer of the uterine wall that is shed during menstruation and provides the site for
blastocyst implantation. The perimetrium (Option A) is the outer serous layer. The myometrium (Option B) is the thick middle
muscular layer responsible for contractions. The decidua basalis (Option D) is the portion of the endometrium that becomes the
maternal portion of the placenta after implantation, not the layer itself. This distinction is important in NUR 2513 for understanding
both normal menstruation and early pregnancy physiology.
Q7: A patient asks the nurse, "What protects my vagina from infection?" Which response is most accurate based on the
anatomy of the female reproductive system?
A. The acidic pH of the vagina inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms.
[CORRECT]
B. The mucus plug in the cervix prevents all bacteria from entering the vagina.
C. The fallopian tubes produce antibodies that protect the vaginal environment.
D. The myometrium contracts regularly to expel foreign organisms.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The vagina maintains an acidic pH (typically 3.8-4.5) due to Lactobacillus production of lactic acid, which protects
against infection by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. The mucus plug (Option B) protects the uterine cavity, not
the vagina. The fallopian tubes (Option C) are not involved in vaginal immunity. Myometrial contractions (Option D) are related to
labor and menstruation, not infection defense. This anatomical defense mechanism is a key concept in NUR 2513 reproductive
health.
Page 3
NUR 2513 / NUR2513: Maternal-Child
Nursing Exam 1
Latest 2026/2027 | Rasmussen University
Comprehensive Exam with Complete Answers and Rationales
Total
75 Exam Type Multiple Choice (A-D)
Questions
Cognitive 25% Recall, 55% Application, 20%
Sections 8
Levels Analysis
Section 1: Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology (Q1-Q10)
Section 2: Fetal Development and Genetics (Q11-Q18)
Section 3: Prenatal Care and Assessment (Q19-Q30)
Section 4: Maternal Nutrition and Health Promotion (Q31-Q38)
Section 5: Fetal Assessment and Surveillance (Q39-Q45)
Section 6: Labor and Delivery Processes (Q46-Q58)
Section 7: Postpartum Adaptations and Newborn Transition (Q59-Q68)
Section 8: Integrated Clinical Scenarios and Priority Setting (Q69-Q75)
Page 1
, NUR 2513 Maternal-Child Nursing Exam 1 | Rasmussen University | 2026-2027
Section 1: Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology
Female Reproductive System, Menstrual Cycle, Hormonal Changes, and Uterine Adaptations
Q1: A nursing student is reviewing the female reproductive system. Which structure is the primary site of fertilization,
and where does it typically occur within that structure?
A. The fundus of the uterus, where the blastocyst implants
B. The ampulla of the fallopian tube, within 24 hours of ovulation [CORRECT]
C. The cervix, where sperm meets the ovum during intercourse
D. The fimbriae of the fallopian tube, during the follicular phase
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Fertilization occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube within 24 hours of ovulation. The fimbriae sweep the ovum into
the tube, and sperm travel through the cervix and uterus to reach the ampulla. The fundus (Option A) is the site of implantation, not
fertilization. The cervix (Option C) is the passage for sperm but not the fertilization site. The fimbriae (Option D) capture the ovum
but fertilization occurs in the ampulla. This is a foundational concept in NUR 2513 reproductive anatomy.
Q2: A pregnant patient at 32 weeks gestation asks the nurse why she is experiencing irregular, painless contractions.
Which response by the nurse is most accurate?
A. "These are early labor contractions and you should go to the hospital immediately."
B. "These are Braxton Hicks contractions, which are irregular and painless; they
prepare your uterus for labor." [CORRECT]
C. "These contractions indicate your cervix is dilating and delivery may occur soon."
D. "These are caused by dehydration and will stop once you drink more water."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, painless contractions that prepare the uterus for labor but do not cause cervical
dilation. They are a normal finding beginning in the second trimester and increase in frequency as pregnancy progresses. Early labor
contractions (Option A) would be regular and progressive. Cervical dilation (Option C) does not occur with Braxton Hicks. While
dehydration can increase Braxton Hicks (Option D), it is not the sole or primary cause, and stating they will 'stop' oversimplifies the
physiology.
Q3: A nurse is teaching a group of nursing students about the hormonal changes of pregnancy. Which hormone is
secreted by trophoblast cells, maintains the corpus luteum, and is the basis for pregnancy testing?
A. Human Placental Lactogen (hPL)
B. Relaxin
C. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) [CORRECT]
D. Progesterone
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: hCG is secreted by trophoblast cells, maintains the corpus luteum (which continues producing progesterone to sustain the
pregnancy until the placenta takes over), and is detected in pregnancy tests. hPL (Option A) modifies maternal metabolism to
support fetal growth. Relaxin (Option B) softens connective tissue and prepares the pelvis for delivery. Progesterone (Option D) is
produced by the corpus luteum initially and later by the placenta, but is not the hormone detected by pregnancy tests. NUR 2513
emphasizes hCG as the key biochemical marker of pregnancy.
Q4: A patient at 28 weeks gestation asks the nurse about the changes in her uterus during pregnancy. Which statement
by the nurse is correct regarding uterine changes?
A. The uterus decreases in weight during pregnancy due to hormonal effects.
Page 2
, NUR 2513 Maternal-Child Nursing Exam 1 | Rasmussen University | 2026-2027
B. The uterus enlarges from approximately 70g to about 1000g by term. [CORRECT]
C. Blood flow to the uterus decreases as the pregnancy progresses.
D. The endometrium is shed monthly throughout the pregnancy.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The uterus enlarges from approximately 70g pre-pregnancy to about 1000g by term, and blood flow increases
significantly to support the growing fetus. The uterus does not decrease in weight (Option A). Endometrial shedding (menstruation)
ceases during pregnancy because hCG maintains the corpus luteum and progesterone sustains the endometrium (Option D). Blood
flow increases, not decreases (Option C). These uterine adaptations are core content in NUR 2513 maternal physiology.
Q5: A nursing instructor is explaining the menstrual cycle to students. Which event occurs during the luteal phase of the
menstrual cycle?
A. FSH stimulates follicle maturation and estrogen rises
B. An LH surge triggers the release of the ovum from the follicle
C. Progesterone rises and prepares the endometrium for possible implantation
[CORRECT]
D. The endometrium is shed if fertilization has not occurred
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: During the luteal phase, the corpus luteum produces progesterone, which prepares the endometrium for possible
implantation. FSH stimulating follicle maturation occurs during the follicular phase (Option A). The LH surge and ovulation occur at
mid-cycle, marking the transition from follicular to luteal phase (Option B). Endometrial shedding (menstruation) occurs if
fertilization does not happen, marking the start of a new cycle, not the luteal phase (Option D). Understanding these phases is
essential for NUR 2513 competency in reproductive physiology.
Q6: A nurse is reviewing the layers of the uterus with a pregnant patient. Which layer of the uterine wall is shed during
menstruation and provides the site for implantation?
A. Perimetrium
B. Myometrium
C. Endometrium [CORRECT]
D. Decidua basalis
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The endometrium is the innermost layer of the uterine wall that is shed during menstruation and provides the site for
blastocyst implantation. The perimetrium (Option A) is the outer serous layer. The myometrium (Option B) is the thick middle
muscular layer responsible for contractions. The decidua basalis (Option D) is the portion of the endometrium that becomes the
maternal portion of the placenta after implantation, not the layer itself. This distinction is important in NUR 2513 for understanding
both normal menstruation and early pregnancy physiology.
Q7: A patient asks the nurse, "What protects my vagina from infection?" Which response is most accurate based on the
anatomy of the female reproductive system?
A. The acidic pH of the vagina inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms.
[CORRECT]
B. The mucus plug in the cervix prevents all bacteria from entering the vagina.
C. The fallopian tubes produce antibodies that protect the vaginal environment.
D. The myometrium contracts regularly to expel foreign organisms.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The vagina maintains an acidic pH (typically 3.8-4.5) due to Lactobacillus production of lactic acid, which protects
against infection by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. The mucus plug (Option B) protects the uterine cavity, not
the vagina. The fallopian tubes (Option C) are not involved in vaginal immunity. Myometrial contractions (Option D) are related to
labor and menstruation, not infection defense. This anatomical defense mechanism is a key concept in NUR 2513 reproductive
health.
Page 3
