Maternity Nursing Q 196
Which of the following best describes preterm labor?
A. Labor that begins after 20 weeks gestation and before 37 weeks gestation.
B. Labor that begins after 15 weeks gestation and before 37 weeks gestation
C. Labor that begins after 24 weeks gestation and before 28 weeks gestation.
D. Labor that begins after 28 weeks gestation and before 40 weeks gestation.
Correct Answer: A. Labor that begins after 20 weeks gestation and before 37 weeks gestation
Preterm labor is best described as labor that begins after 20 weeks’ gestation and before 37 weeks’ gestation. The other time periods are inaccurate.
Option B: At 15 weeks gestation, the fetus weighs around 4 ounces (oz) and its facial features will be starting to take shape. The bones in its ears will be developing for the first time, and the fetus will be able to hear the sounds of the mother’s heart, digestive system, and voice. Even though the eyes of the fetus will remain closed, it will be able to sense and respond to light.
Option C: At 24 weeks gestation, the branches of the baby’s lungs are forming, as well as the cells that make surfactant, a natural substance that lines the tiny air sacs (called alveoli) in the lungs to make breathing possible.4 While a small amount of surfactant is now present, the lungs are still immature. Babies born this early have a hard time breathing.
Option D: Babies begin having eye movements as early as 14 weeks, but these movements increase around 28 weeks. The higher frequency of eye movements is associated with REM sleep and healthy brain development.