each member of a pair of genes is termed an
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HESI Focus on Maternity Exam

1. What term is used to describe each member of a pair of genes?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'allele.' An allele refers to one of two or more versions of a gene located at the same position on a chromosome. In genetics, alleles are responsible for variations in inherited traits. Choice B, 'zygote,' is incorrect as a zygote is a fertilized egg cell formed by the fusion of two gametes. Choice C, 'autosome,' is incorrect as autosomes are non-sex chromosomes that determine an individual's genetic traits excluding sex-linked characteristics. Choice D, 'node,' is incorrect as it does not relate to the concept of genes or genetic inheritance.

2. Which synthetic hormone is used to prevent miscarriages and can cause masculinization of the fetus?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Progestin is the synthetic hormone used to prevent miscarriages. While it is beneficial in maintaining pregnancy, in some cases, it can lead to masculinization of the fetus. Testosterone (Choice A) and estrogen (Choice B) are not typically used to prevent miscarriages and do not cause masculinization of the fetus in this context. Oxytocin (Choice D) is a hormone involved in labor and breastfeeding, but it is not used to prevent miscarriages nor does it cause masculinization of the fetus.

3. A client in the transition phase of labor reports a pain level of 7 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During the transition phase of labor, a client may experience intense back pain due to the pressure of the baby descending. Applying counterpressure to the client's sacrum can help alleviate this discomfort. Effleurage is a light stroking massage technique that may not provide adequate relief for intense back pain. Patterned-paced breathing is beneficial for managing contractions but may not directly address back pain. Biofeedback is a technique that helps individuals gain awareness and control of certain physiological functions, but it may not be the most appropriate intervention for acute labor pain.

4. _____ is a type of estrogen, prescribed in the 1940s and 1950s to pregnant women, that is said to have caused testicular, vaginal, and cervical cancer in some offspring.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic estrogen that was prescribed to pregnant women in the 1940s and 1950s to prevent miscarriages. However, it was later discovered that DES exposure in utero could lead to health issues in offspring, including an increased risk of testicular, vaginal, and cervical cancer. Choice A, Androsterone, is a steroid hormone produced in small amounts in humans and unlikely to be associated with the adverse effects described. Choice B, Adiponectin, is a protein hormone that plays a role in regulating glucose levels and fatty acid breakdown, not related to the adverse effects mentioned. Choice C, Progestin, is a synthetic form of progesterone used in birth control and hormone therapy, not linked to the specific health concerns associated with DES exposure.

5. Do neural tube defects cause an elevation in the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level in the mother’s blood?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Yes, neural tube defects can cause an elevation in AFP levels in the mother’s blood. AFP levels are often used as a screening marker during pregnancy to detect neural tube defects. Choice B is incorrect because an elevation in AFP levels can indeed occur in the presence of neural tube defects. Choice C is not the best option as it leaves room for uncertainty when the relationship between neural tube defects and AFP elevation is well-established. Choice D is incorrect as neural tube defects are known to influence AFP levels in the maternal blood.

Similar Questions

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Polygenic traits are those that are:

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