Maternity HESI Practice Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Syphilis is the correct answer. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. If left untreated, it can progress through various stages and potentially attack major organ systems, causing severe complications. Rubella, Cystic fibrosis, and Phenylketonuria are not sexually transmitted infections. Rubella is a viral infection, Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and digestive system, and Phenylketonuria is a genetic metabolic disorder. These conditions do not typically affect major organ systems in the same way as untreated syphilis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) assay. This blood test measures the level of AFP in a pregnant woman's blood, aiding in the detection of neural tube defects and certain chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Choice A, artificial insemination, is a method used to facilitate fertilization and is not related to detecting fetal abnormalities. Choice B, amniocentesis, involves collecting amniotic fluid for genetic testing, not directly measuring AFP levels. Choice C, endometriosis, is a medical condition involving abnormal tissue growth and is not a procedure for detecting fetal abnormalities. Therefore, the Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) assay is the most appropriate option for detecting neural tube defects such as spina bifida and certain chromosomal abnormalities.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: WBC count 32,000/mm3. A WBC count of 32,000/mm3 is significantly elevated in a newborn and could indicate an infection, which needs immediate attention and intervention. High white blood cell counts in newborns can be concerning as they may suggest an ongoing infection or other underlying issues that require prompt medical evaluation and treatment. Choices A, B, and C are within normal ranges for a newborn and would not typically warrant immediate reporting to the provider. Hgb levels of 20 g/dL (Choice A) are high for newborns, but this is not as concerning as a significantly elevated WBC count. Bilirubin levels of 2 mg/dL (Choice B) are within normal limits for a newborn and do not indicate immediate issues. Platelet count of 200,000/mm3 (Choice C) is also within the normal range for a newborn and would not require immediate reporting.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: After childbirth, a boggy uterus indicates poor uterine tone, which can lead to the formation of clots. Massaging the fundus helps the uterus contract and expel clots, reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the main concern with a boggy uterus is the risk of clot formation and postpartum hemorrhage, not solely preventing intrauterine infection, massaging the lower uterine segment, or preventing the endometrial lining from sloughing.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: uterus. The uterus is the organ where the embryo implants and the fetus develops during pregnancy. The placenta (choice A) is an organ that develops during pregnancy and provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, but it is not the organ where the embryo and fetus physically develop. The ovum (choice B) is the female reproductive cell or egg that is fertilized by the sperm to form an embryo, but it is not the organ where the embryo and fetus develop. The amniotic sac (choice D) is a membrane filled with amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects the fetus, but it is not the organ where the embryo and fetus physically develop.