PMC PMC Circulatory & Lymphatic Considerations 2

Question 1

What is supine hypotensive syndrome and when does it most commonly occur?

Accepted Answer

A drop in blood pressure caused by uterine compression of the vena cava when lying supine, most common after 20 weeks

Answer

After 20 weeks, the enlarged uterus can compress the inferior vena cava when supine, reducing cardiac return and causing hypotension.

Question 2

How does the left lateral recumbent position benefit a pregnant client's circulation?

Accepted Answer

It shifts the uterus off the inferior vena cava, improving venous return to the heart

Answer

The left lateral position moves the uterus leftward, relieving compression on the vena cava and aorta, optimizing maternal and fetal circulation.

Question 3

Which hormone is primarily responsible for the vasodilation and increased cardiovascular output seen in early pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Progesterone

Answer

Progesterone relaxes smooth muscle in blood vessel walls, causing vasodilation and a compensatory increase in cardiac output.

Question 4

Why is generalized pitting edema in the ankles and feet considered a normal finding in late pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Increased venous pressure from the growing uterus impairs lymphatic drainage in the lower extremities

Answer

The enlarged uterus compresses pelvic veins and lymphatics, slowing return flow and causing dependent edema in the feet and ankles.

Question 5

When performing lymphatic drainage on a pregnant client, what is the recommended direction for light effleurage on the arm?

Accepted Answer

From hand toward the axillary lymph nodes

Answer

Manual lymphatic drainage always moves fluid toward regional lymph nodes; in the arm, this means moving from the periphery toward the axilla.

(PMC) Prenatal Massage Certification Practice Test