Cashion, Alden, Olshansky, Lowdermilk, and Hockenberry
, Chapter 01: 21st Century Maternity Nursing
Perry: Maternal Child Nursing Care, 7th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. While caring for a pregnant client, which condition is most commonly identified as a medical risk during
pregnancy?
A) Mitral valve prolapse (MVP)
B) Anemia
C) Chronic hypertension
D) Diabetes mellitus
Correct Answer: D
Rationale:
Among maternal health risks, diabetes mellitus is one of the most frequently reported and monitored conditions
during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes or preexisting diabetes can significantly increase the likelihood of
complications such as preeclampsia, macrosomia, birth injuries, and cesarean delivery. Additionally, diabetes is
closely linked with maternal obesity, a rising health concern. While MVP is often benign and less commonly
associated with pregnancy complications, and anemia is a concern, neither is reported as often or has as significant
an impact as diabetes. Chronic hypertension is also a risk, but pregnancy-induced hypertension (e.g.,
preeclampsia) is more frequently documented.
2. In promoting effective collaboration among healthcare providers, what does the SBAR communication method
stand for?
A) Situation, baseline assessment, response
B) Situation, background, assessment, recommendation
,C) Subjective background, assessment, recommendation
D) Situation, background, anticipated recommendation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
The SBAR method (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) is a standardized communication tool
that enhances clarity and accuracy in healthcare communication, especially in high-stress or complex situations. It
helps prevent miscommunication, which is a major contributor to medical errors. “Situation” describes the current
issue, “Background” gives context, “Assessment” identifies the nurse’s evaluation, and “Recommendation”
provides a proposed solution or action. The other options include inaccurate or incomplete definitions of the
acronym.
3. Which role best reflects the evolving function of a professional nurse in caring for pregnant individuals and
families?
A) Providing only bedside care
B) Focusing on hospital-based maternity services
C) Applying evidence-based practice in clinical decisions
D) Extending the length of hospital stays
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Modern maternity nurses are expected to base their clinical decisions on solid scientific evidence to ensure the best
outcomes. Evidence-based practice involves integrating clinical expertise, current research, and patient values.
While bedside care is essential, it’s only one aspect of nursing. The focus has shifted from longer hospital stays to
early discharge and outpatient management. Nurses also work in various settings like clinics, birthing centers, and
homes, all requiring a research-informed approach.
, 4. A 23-year-old African-American woman is pregnant with her first baby. Based on what is known about infant
mortality trends, what should the nurse prioritize?
A) Conducting a nutrition evaluation
B) Referring the patient to social services
C) Recommending care from a physician instead of a midwife
D) Emphasizing the importance of regular prenatal visits
Correct Answer: D
Rationale:
Timely and continuous prenatal care is proven to reduce risks linked to infant mortality, especially in higher-risk
groups such as African-American women, who statistically experience greater disparities in birth outcomes.
Although nutrition and social support are important, ensuring consistent prenatal care helps identify, monitor, and
manage complications early. The nurse’s role is to encourage attendance at scheduled visits rather than dictate the
type of provider (e.g., OB vs. midwife), especially without clinical justification.
5. During an initial prenatal visit, a 21-year-old Hispanic woman with limited English proficiency seems unsure.
What is the nurse’s most important responsibility?
A) Hand her written materials
B) Use medical language to teach new terms
C) Speak quickly to finish the appointment
D) Confirm her understanding of the conversation
Correct Answer: D
Rationale:
Health literacy plays a crucial role in promoting positive outcomes, particularly for patients who may face
language barriers. Nurses must avoid assumptions and should validate comprehension using techniques such as the
“teach-back” method. Providing materials or speaking quickly is not effective without ensuring the patient