NUR 335 Exam 1 Maternal Health Theory and Application V1 Complete Question Bank and Detailed Rationales Update

NUR 335 Exam 1 Maternal Health Theory and
Application V1 Complete Question Bank and
Detailed Rationales Update




Question 1

A nurse is reviewing the structures of the female reproductive tract. Which anatomical
site is the most common location for fertilization to take place?

 A) Fundus of the uterus
 B) Ampulla of the fallopian tube
 C) Isthmus of the fallopian tube
 D) Interstitial portion of the uterus
ANSWER: B) Ampulla of the fallopian tube

, EXPLANATION: Fertilization typically occurs in the ampulla, which is the wider,
outer third segment of the fallopian tube. This area provides an optimal biochemical
environment for the sperm to meet and penetrate the mature oocyte. The fundus is
where implantation of the blastocyst should occur, not fertilization.




Question 2

During a preconception counseling session, a client asks when ovulation typically occurs
in a standard 28-day menstrual cycle. Which day should the nurse identify?

 A) Day 7
 B) Day 10
 C) Day 14
 D) Day 21
ANSWER: C) Day 14

EXPLANATION: In a textbook 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs approximately 14 days
before the onset of the next menstrual period. This marks the transition from the
follicular/proliferative phase to the luteal/secretory phase, driven by a sharp surge in
Luteinizing Hormone (LH).




Question 3

A nurse is teaching a student about the phases of the endometrial cycle. Which hormone
is primarily responsible for the proliferative phase, stimulating endometrial growth and
vascularity?

 A) Progesterone
 B) Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
 C) Estrogen
 D) Luteinizing hormone (LH)

, ANSWER: C) Estrogen

EXPLANATION: Estrogen is secreted in large amounts by the developing ovarian
follicles during the first half of the cycle. It stimulates endometrial cell proliferation
and thickens the uterine lining. Progesterone dominates the subsequent secretory phase
to stabilize the lining for potential implantation.




Question 4

Which specific hormone prevents the involution of the corpus luteum immediately
following fertilization, ensuring the continuous secretion of progesterone until the
placenta takes over?

 A) Human placental lactogen (hPL)
 B) Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
 C) Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
 D) Estriol
ANSWER: B) Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

EXPLANATION: hCG is produced by the syncytiotrophoblast cells of the blastocyst
shortly after implantation. It mimics LH to rescue and maintain the corpus luteum,
preventing its degradation into the corpus albicans and safeguarding early pregnancy.
This is also the hormone detected by pregnancy tests.




Question 5

A nurse is explaining placental hormones to a pregnant client. Which hormone acts as an
insulin antagonist, increasing maternal insulin resistance to ensure a steady supply of
glucose is available for fetal growth?

 A) Progesterone
 B) Estrogen

,  C) Human placental lactogen (hPL)
 D) Relaxin
ANSWER: C) Human placental lactogen (hPL)

EXPLANATION: Also known as human chorionic somatomammotropin (hCS), hPL
alters maternal metabolism. It decreases maternal glucose utilization and boosts fatty
acid breakdown, making more glucose readily available for placental transfer to the
fetus. This metabolic shift forms the physiological basis for gestational diabetes.




Question 6

A client at 8 weeks gestation asks the nurse about the function of the fluid surrounding
the fetus. Which statement accurately describes a major function of amniotic fluid?

 A) It serves as the primary source of fetal nutrition.
 B) It maintains a constant fetal body temperature and cushions against trauma.
 C) It generates maternal antibodies to protect the fetus from viral pathogens.
 D) It regulates the rhythmic contractions of the myometrium.
ANSWER: B) It maintains a constant fetal body temperature and cushions against
trauma.

EXPLANATION: Amniotic fluid provides structural and physical protection. It serves
as a shock absorber, facilitates symmetrical musculoskeletal growth, prevents the
amnion from adhering to the fetus, and maintains a stable thermal environment. Fetal
nutrition is handled by the placenta via umbilical circulation.




Question 7

During an ultrasound, the nurse notes the presence of two umbilical arteries and one
umbilical vein. What is the precise function of the single umbilical vein?

 A) It transports deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta.