The nurse working on the labor and delivery floor is aware that which of the following maternal infections may increase the risk of developing congenital heart defects in the fetus?
The nurse working on the labor and delivery floor is aware that which of the following maternal infections may increase the risk of developing congenital heart defects in the fetus?
A. Parainfluenza
[6%]
B. Adenovirus
[19%]
C. Rubella
[56%]
D. Measles
[19%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Antepartum
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice C is correct. Rubella is a maternal infection that is known to increase the risk that the fetus will have a congenital heart defect. All mothers should be tested for rubella, and if found to be positive, should have a fetal echocardiogram performed to evaluate the fetus' heart more closely.
Choice A is incorrect. Parainfluenza is a respiratory virus that, while causing respiratory symptoms, is not known to significantly increase the risk of congenital heart defects.
Choice B is incorrect. Adenovirus is a respiratory virus, and its association with an increased risk of congenital heart defects is not well-established.
Choice D is incorrect. Measles, like rubella, is a viral infection. While it can cause complications during pregnancy, it is not as strongly associated with an increased risk of congenital heart defects as rubella.
Additional Info
✓ Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It is characterized by a distinctive red rash that starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. Rubella is generally a mild and self-limiting illness in children and adults, but it can have more serious consequences if contracted during pregnancy.
✓ Emphasize the importance of rubella vaccination before pregnancy, as it is a preventable infection. Ensure that women of childbearing age are up-to-date on their vaccinations to reduce the risk of congenital rubella syndrome.
✓ Advise pregnant women to practice good infection control measures, especially avoiding exposure to individuals with rubella. This is particularly crucial during outbreaks of contagious diseases.
