An expectant parent says to the nurse, When my sister's baby was ...

[ENagel]

An expectant parent says to the nurse, When my sister's baby was born, it was covered in a cheeselike coating. What is the purpose of this coating? The correct response by the nurse is to explain that the purpose of vernix caseosa is to:
 
  a. regulate fetal temperature.
  b. protect the fetal skin from amniotic fluid.
  c. promote normal peripheral nervous system development.
  d. allow the transport of oxygen and nutrients across the amnion.

Question 2

The upper uterus is the best place for the fertilized ovum to implant because the:
 
  a. maternal blood flow is lower.
  b. placenta attaches most firmly.
  c. uterine endometrium is softer.
  d. developing baby is best nourished.

[Juro]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid during the fetal period could result in breakdown of the skin without the protection of the vernix caseosa. The amniotic fluid aids in maintaining fetal temperature. Normal peripheral nervous system development is dependent on the nutritional intake of the mother. The amnion is the inner membrane that surrounds the fetus. It is not involved in the oxygen and nutrient exchange.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The uterine fundus is richly supplied with blood and has the thickest endometrium, both of which promote optimum nourishment of the fetus. The blood supply is rich in the fundus, which allows for optimal nourishment of the fetus. If the placenta attaches too deeply, it does not easily detach. Softness is not a concern with implantation; attachment and nourishment are the major concerns.