A woman who is 4 weeks pregnant is worried that a medication she ...

[Mollykgkg]

A woman who is 4 weeks pregnant is worried that a medication she took until 3 weeks ago may cause birth defects. The nurse will tell her that
 
  a. drugs taken in the first week of pregnancy can cause CNS defects.
  b. medications have increased teratogenicity during the first week of pregnancy.
  c. she should have an ultrasound immediately.
  d. teratogenic effects are rare in the first 2 weeks of pregnancy.

Question 2

A pregnant woman asks the nurse about whether a medication is safe to take during pregnancy. The nurse notes that the drug has a low molecular weight. Based on this drug characteristic, the nurse understands that this drug
 
  a. can cause greater gastrointestinal distress and hyperemesis.
  b. has reduced renal elimination resulting in toxicity.
  c. is more sensitive to metabolism by circulating maternal hormones.
  d. will be more likely to cross the placenta and affect the fetus.

[dellikani2015]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
During the first 2 weeks, the embryo is not susceptible to teratogenesis. There is no need for an ultrasound.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Low-molecular weight drugs are more likely to cross the placental barrier. This characteristic does not contribute to increased GI distress or toxicity because of reduced renal elimination. Drugs with low molecular weight are not more sensitive to metabolism by maternal hormones.

[Mollykgkg]

TYSM

[dantucker]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it