Midwifery Exam Practice Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cephalopelvic disproportion. This condition occurs when the baby's head is too large to pass through the mother's pelvis during labor. This leads to obstructed labor, causing complications for both the mother and the baby. Maternal exhaustion (A) may occur as a result of prolonged labor but is not the primary cause of obstructed labor. Microsomic fetus (C) refers to a small baby and would not typically cause obstructed labor. Fetal exsanguination (D) is the loss of blood from the fetus and is not a common cause of obstructed labor. Cephalopelvic disproportion is the most common reason for obstructed labor as it directly affects the passage of the baby through the birth canal.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because additional nursing interventions are necessary to ensure an uncomplicated postpartum period. After an assisted vaginal delivery, the mother may experience increased pain, perineal trauma, and a higher risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Nursing interventions such as pain management, wound care, monitoring for signs of infection, and emotional support are crucial for the mother's recovery. A is incorrect because both vacuum extractors and forceps can cause trauma to the baby and mother's perineum, and the safety of one over the other depends on various factors. B is incorrect as the development of a cephalhematoma is not a normal expected outcome of assisted vaginal delivery and should be monitored and managed appropriately if it occurs. C is incorrect as the use of instruments during childbirth, while not as common as spontaneous vaginal deliveries, is not rare and can be necessary in certain situations to ensure the safety of the mother and baby.

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: 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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Breech presentation increases risks during childbirth. Prolonged labor is common due to the position of the baby. Umbilical cord prolapse occurs when the cord slips through the cervix before the baby, leading to oxygen deprivation. Shoulder dystocia happens when the baby's shoulders get stuck during delivery. Choice A is correct as it directly relates to complications of breech presentation. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically address the complications associated with breech presentation. Cesarean delivery is often recommended for breech presentation to avoid complications. Uterine rupture is a rare but severe complication that is not directly caused by breech presentation. Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and low birth weight are not commonly associated with breech presentation. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer.