Maternity Nursing Q 38

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Shoes with low, broad heels, plus a good posture will prevent which prenatal discomfort?

  

     A. Backache

     B. Vertigo

     C. Leg cramps

     D. Nausea

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Backache

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Backache usually occurs in the lumbar area and becomes more problematic as the uterus enlarges. The pregnant woman in her third trimester usually assumes a lordotic posture to maintain balance causing an exaggeration of the lumbar curvature. Low broad heels provide the pregnant woman with good support.

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Option B: Neurotologists and gynecologists should be aware of pregnant women with vertigo. To improve the quality of life during gestation, clinicians should consider this pathology in their differential diagnosis, which will help avoid vertigo-related undesirable conditions that may compromise both maternal and fetal status.

Option C: It may have to do with changes in blood circulation and stress on the leg muscles from carrying extra weight. A growing baby also puts pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that go to the legs. And some doctors say low calcium, or a change in the way the body processes calcium, may cause cramps.

Option D: The pathophysiology of nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy is unknown, although metabolic, endocrine, GI, and psychologic factors probably all play a role. Estrogen may contribute because estrogen levels are elevated in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum.

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