CPM CPM Anatomy and Physiology for Midwifery 2

Question 1

Which fetal presentation is described when the occiput is directed toward the maternal left anterior quadrant?

Accepted Answer

Left occiput anterior (LOA)

Answer

LOA (left occiput anterior) means the occiput of the fetus is toward the mother's left side and anteriorly, which is the most common and favorable position for labor.

Question 2

What physiological change to the cardiovascular system occurs during the second trimester of pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac output increases by 30–50%

Answer

Cardiac output increases by 30–50% during pregnancy, peaking in the second trimester due to increased stroke volume and heart rate to meet the demands of the uteroplacental circulation.

Question 3

What is the purpose of the foramen ovale in fetal circulation?

Accepted Answer

Allows oxygenated blood to pass from the right atrium to the left atrium, bypassing the lungs

Answer

The foramen ovale is an opening in the atrial septum that shunts oxygenated blood from the right atrium directly to the left atrium, bypassing the non-functional fetal lungs.

Question 4

Which muscle forms the pelvic floor and is most commonly damaged during vaginal birth?

Accepted Answer

Levator ani muscle group

Answer

The levator ani, comprising the pubococcygeus, puborectalis, and iliococcygeus, forms the main pelvic floor support and is the muscle most frequently stretched or torn during vaginal delivery.

Question 5

During normal pregnancy, which renal change is expected and does NOT indicate pathology?

Accepted Answer

Glycosuria in the absence of hyperglycemia

Answer

GFR increases by up to 50% in pregnancy, increasing the filtered glucose load beyond tubular reabsorption capacity, causing glycosuria even with normal blood glucose.

CPM - Certified Professional Midwife Practice Test

CPM - Certified Professional Midwife Practice Test

CPM CPM Anatomy and Physiology for Midwifery 2