Midwifery Exam Practice Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: By altering immune development. The maternal microbiome plays a crucial role in shaping the fetal immune system during pregnancy. Microbes in the mother's body can influence the development of the fetus's immune system through various mechanisms, such as immune cells crossing the placenta. This interaction helps the fetus develop tolerance to maternal antigens. Choice A (By increasing fetal weight) is incorrect because the maternal microbiome's influence is not primarily related to weight gain. Choice C (By reducing placental oxygen levels) is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the immune system development. Choice D (By enhancing amniotic fluid) is incorrect as the main influence is on the immune system rather than amniotic fluid enhancement.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: In normal labor, the cervix undergoes effacement and dilation. Step 2: A short and thin cervical canal indicates progression towards labor. Step 3: Long and thick cervical canal suggests a delay in labor progress. Step 4: Choice C, short and thin cervical canal, is indicative of abnormal labor. Summary: A, B, and D do not reflect changes in the cervix seen in labor, making them incorrect choices.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A needle biopsy is appropriate for definitive diagnosis of hepatic hemangiomas, ruling out other liver lesions. It helps determine if they are benign or malignant. This will guide further management decisions. Summary: B: Annual ultrasound is unnecessary for benign hemangiomas. C: Surgery is not indicated for asymptomatic hepatic hemangiomas. D: Documenting the finding is important but not the appropriate next step in management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Klumpke's palsy. Neonatal injury to nerve roots C8 & T1 leads to Klumpke's palsy, characterized by paralysis of the lower arm and hand muscles. This occurs due to damage to the lower trunk of the brachial plexus. Erb's palsy (choice A) involves C5 & C6 nerve roots, causing weakness in the shoulder and upper arm. Phrenic injury (choice C) affects the diaphragm, leading to breathing difficulties. Radial palsy (choice D) results from damage to the radial nerve, causing wrist drop and weakness in forearm muscles. Klumpke's palsy specifically matches the description of injury to nerve roots C8 & T1.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because establishing an intravenous line is essential for immediate access to administer fluids, medications, and blood products during the emergency cesarean section. This step ensures that the patient's vital signs can be supported, and any emergent interventions can be readily delivered. A: While informed consent is important, in an emergency situation, the priority is to ensure the patient's immediate medical needs are met. B: Inserting a Foley's catheter may be necessary during the procedure, but it is not the most critical assessment prior to the cesarean section. D: Shaving the perineal area is not a priority in an emergency situation and may be done during the preparation for surgery.