Maternity Nursing: Antepartum Q 36

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Which of the following conditions is common in pregnant women in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy?

  

     A. Mastitis

     B. Metabolic alkalosis

     C. Physiologic anemia

     D. Respiratory acidosis

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Physiologic anemia.

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Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels decrease during pregnancy as the increase in plasma volume exceeds the increase in red blood cell production.

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Option A: Mastitis, which mainly affects breastfeeding women, causes redness, swelling, and pain in one or both breasts. Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that sometimes involves an infection. The inflammation results in breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. You might also have fever and chills.

Option B: Metabolic alkalosis is uncommon in pregnancy and is most often the result of severe vomiting. If this is present at the time of delivery, transient metabolic derangement in the fetus can occur, potentially requiring additional organ support.

Option D: Progesterone levels are increased during pregnancy. Progesterone causes stimulation of the respiratory center, which can lead to respiratory alkalosis. Chronic respiratory alkalosis is a common finding in pregnant women.

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