INDIANA UNIVERSITY OB-MATERNAL EXAM 3 2024 WITH WELL EXPLAINED ANSWERS

A client in her first trimester of pregnancy is scheduled for an ultrasound. Which of the following would not be a reason for an ultrasound at this stage? A Determine fetal position. B Detect multiple gestations. C Detect maternal abnormalities. D Confirm pregnancy. ________________________________________ Correct Answer: A Choice A rationale: Fetal position during the first trimester is not definitively determined through ultrasound. While the gestational sac and fetal pole can be visualized, the fetus is still quite small and has ample space to move within the amniotic sac. This makes it challenging to accurately ascertain its position. Reliable assessment of fetal position typically occurs later in pregnancy, usually between 34 and 36 weeks gestation. At this point, the fetus is larger and less mobile, allowing for a clearer assessment of its position through ultrasound. The early determination of fetal position in the first trimester is not a primary goal of ultrasound. It is more focused on establishing pregnancy viability, gestational age, and detecting any potential abnormalities.