Perry 3

Question 1

The two primary functions of the ovaries are:

a. normal female development and sex hormone release.
b. ovulation and internal pelvic support.
c. sexual response and ovulation.
d. ovulation and hormone production

Answer 1

ANS: D
The two functions of the ovaries are ovulation and hormone production. The presence of ovaries does not guarantee normal female
development. The ovaries produce estrogen, progesterone, and androgen. Ovulation is the release of a mature ovum from the ovary;
the ovaries are not responsible for internal pelvic support. Sexual response is a feedback mechanism involving the hypothalamus,
anterior pituitary gland, and the ovaries. Ovulation does occur in the ovaries.

Question 2

The uterus is a muscular, pear-shaped organ that is responsible for:

a. cyclic menstruation.
b. sex hormone production.
c. fertilization.
d. sexual arousal

Answer 2

ANS: A
The uterus is an organ for reception, implantation, retention, and nutrition of the fertilized ovum; it also is responsible for cyclic
menstruation. Hormone production and fertilization occur in the ovaries. Sexual arousal is a feedback mechanism involving the
hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the ovaries.

Question 3

Unique muscle fibers make the uterine myometrium ideally suited for:

a. menstruation.
b. the birth process.
c. ovulation.
d. fertilization.

Answer 3

ANS: B
The myometrium is made up of layers of smooth muscles that extend in three directions. These muscles assist in the birth process
by expelling the fetus, ligating blood vessels after birth, and controlling the opening of the cervical os.

Question 4

The hormone responsible for maturation of mammary gland tissue is:

a. estrogen.
b. testosterone.
c. prolactin.
d. progesterone.

Answer 4

ANS: D
Progesterone causes maturation of the mammary gland tissue, specifically acinar structures of the lobules. Estrogen increases the
vascularity of the breast tissue. Testosterone has no bearing on breast development. Prolactin is produced after birth and released
from the pituitary gland. It is produced in response to infant suckling and emptying of the breasts

Question 5

Because of the effect of cyclic ovarian changes on the breast, the best time for breast self-examination (BSE) is:

a. 5 to 7 days after menses ceases.
b. Day 1 of the endometrial cycle.
c. mid-menstrual cycle.
d. any time during a shower or bath.

Answer 5

ANS: A
The physiologic alterations in breast size and activity reach their minimal level about 5 to 7 days after menstruation stops. All
women should perform BSE during this phase of the menstrual cycle.

Question 6

Menstruation is periodic uterine bleeding:

a. that occurs every 28 days.
b. in which the entire uterine lining is shed.
c. that is regulated by ovarian hormones.
d. that leads to fertilization

Answer 6

ANS: C
Menstruation is periodic uterine bleeding that is controlled by a feedback system involving three cycles: endometrial,
hypothalamic-pituitary, and ovarian. The average length of a menstrual cycle is 28 days, but variations are normal. During the
endometrial cycle, the functional two thirds of the endometrium are shed. Lack of fertilization leads to menstruation.

Question 7

Individual irregularities in the ovarian (menstrual) cycle are most often caused by:

a. variations in the follicular (preovulatory) phase.
b. an intact hypothalamic-pituitary feedback mechanism.
c. a functioning corpus luteum.
d. a prolonged ischemic phase

Answer 7

ANS: A
Almost all variations in the length of the ovarian cycle are the result of variations in the length of the follicular phase. An intact
hypothalamic-pituitary feedback mechanism is regular, not irregular. The luteal phase begins after ovulation. The corpus luteum
depends on the ovulatory phase and fertilization. During the ischemic phase, the blood supply to the functional endometrium is
blocked and necrosis develops. The functional layer separates from the basal layer, and menstrual bleeding begins

Question 8

Prostaglandins are produced in most organs of the body, including the uterus. Other source(s) of prostaglandins is/are:

a. ovaries.
b. breast milk.
c. menstrual blood.
d. the vagina

Answer 8

ANS: C
Menstrual blood is a potent source of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced in most organs of the body and in menstrual
blood. The ovaries, breast milk, and vagina are neither organs nor a source of prostaglandins.

Question 9

Physiologically, sexual response can be characterized by:

a. coitus, masturbation, and fantasy.
b. myotonia and vasocongestion.
c. erection and orgasm.
d. excitement, plateau, and orgasm.

Answer 9

ANS: B
Physiologically, according to Masters (1992), sexual response can be analyzed in terms of two processes: vasocongestion and
myotonia. Coitus, masturbation, and fantasy are forms of stimulation for the physical manifestation of the sexual response. Erection
and orgasm occur in two of the four phases of the sexual response cycle. Excitement, plateau, and orgasm are three of the four
phases of the sexual response cycle.

Question 10

The long-term treatment plan for an adolescent with an eating disorder focuses on:

a. managing the effects of malnutrition.
b. establishing sufficient caloric intake.
c. improving family dynamics.
d. restructuring perception of body image.

Answer 10

ANS: D
The treatment of eating disorders is initially focused on reestablishing physiologic homeostasis. Once body systems are stabilized,
the next goal of treatment for eating disorders is maintaining adequate caloric intake. Although family therapy is indicated when
dysfunctional family relationships exist, the primary focus of therapy for eating disorders is to help the adolescent cope with
complex issues. The focus of treatment in individual therapy for an eating disorder involves restructuring cognitive perceptions
about the individual’s body image.

Question 11

The nurse guides a woman to the examination room and asks her to remove her clothes and put on an examination gown with the
front open. The woman states, “I have special undergarments that I do not remove for religious reasons.” The most appropriate
response from the nurse would be:
a. “You can’t have an examination without removing all your clothes.”
b. “I’ll ask the doctor to modify the examination.”
c. “Tell me about your undergarments. I’ll explain the examination procedure, and
then we can discuss how you can have your examination comfortably.”
d. “What? I’ve never heard of such a thing! That sounds different and strange.

Answer 11

ANS: C
This statement reflects cultural competence by the nurse and shows respect for the woman’s religious practices. The nurse must
respect the rich and unique qualities that cultural diversity brings to individuals. In recognizing the value of these differences, the
nurse can modify the plan of care to meet the needs of each woman

Question 12

A 62-year-old woman has not been to the clinic for an annual examination for 5 years. The recent death of her husband reminded
her that she should come for a visit. Her family doctor has retired, and she is going to see the women’s health nurse practitioner for
her visit. To facilitate a positive health care experience, the nurse should:
a. remind the woman that she is long overdue for her examination and that she
should come in annually.
b. listen carefully and allow extra time for this woman’s health history interview.
c. reassure the woman that a nurse practitioner is just as good as her old doctor.
d. encourage the woman to talk about the death of her husband and her fears about
her own death

Answer 12

ANS: B
The nurse has an opportunity to use reflection and empathy while listening and to ensure open and caring communication.
Scheduling a longer appointment time may be necessary because older women may have longer histories or may need to talk. A
respectful and reassuring approach to caring for women older than age 50 can help ensure that they continue to seek health care.
Reminding the woman about her overdue examination, reassuring the woman that she has a good practitioner, and encouraging
conversation about the death of her husband and her own death are not the best approaches with women in this age-group

Question 13

During a health history interview, a woman states that she thinks that she has “bumps” on her labia. She also states that she is not
sure how to check herself. The correct response would be to:
a. reassure the woman that the examination will not reveal any problems.
b. explain the process of vulvar self-examination to the woman and reassure her that
she should become familiar with normal and abnormal findings during the
examination.
c. reassure the woman that “bumps” can be treated.
d. reassure her that most women have “bumps” on their labia

Answer 13

ANS: B
During the assessment and evaluation, the responsibility for self-care, health promotion, and enhancement of wellness is
emphasized. The pelvic examination provides a good opportunity for the practitioner to emphasize the need for regular vulvar
self-examination. Providing reassurance to the woman concerning the “bumps” would not be an accurate response.

Question 14

A woman arrives at the clinic for her annual examination. She tells the nurse that she thinks she has a vaginal infection and has
been using an over-the-counter cream for the past 2 days to treat it. The nurse’s initial response should be to:
a. inform the woman that vaginal creams may interfere with the Papanicolaou (Pap)
test for which she is scheduled.
b. reassure the woman that using vaginal cream is not a problem for the
examination.
c. ask the woman to describe the symptoms that indicate to her that she has a vaginal
infection.
d. ask the woman to reschedule the appointment for the examination.

Answer 14

ANS: C
An important element of the history and physical examination is the patient’s description of any symptoms she may be
experiencing. Although vaginal creams may interfere with the Pap test, the best response is for the nurse to inquire about the
symptoms the patient is experiencing. Women should not douche, use vaginal medications, or have sexual intercourse for 24 to 48
hours before obtaining a Pap test. Although the woman may need to reschedule a visit for her Pap test, her current symptoms
should still be addressed

Question 15

The transition phase during which ovarian function and hormone production decline is called:

a. the climacteric.
b. menarche.
c. menopause.
d. puberty.

Answer 15

ANS: A
The climacteric is a transitional phase during which ovarian function and hormone production decline. Menarche is the term that
denotes the first menstruation. Menopause refers only to the last menstrual period. Puberty is a broad term that denotes the entire
transitional stage between childhood and sexual maturity

Question 16

Which statement would indicate that the patient requires additional instruction about breast self-examination?

a. “Yellow discharge from my nipple is normal if I am having my period.”
b. “I should check my breasts at the same time each month, like after my period.”
c. “I should also feel in my armpit area while performing my breast examination.”
d. “I should check each breast in a set way, such as in a circular motion.

Answer 16

ANS: A
Discharge from the nipples requires further examination from a health care provider. “I should check my breasts at the same time
each month, like after my period,” “I should also feel in my armpit area while performing my breast examination,” and “I should
check each breast in a set way, such as in a circular motion” all indicate successful learning.

Question 17

The female reproductive organ(s) responsible for cyclic menstruation is/are the:

a. uterus.
b. ovaries.
c. vaginal vestibule.
d. urethra

Answer 17

ANS: A
The uterus is responsible for cyclic menstruation. It also houses and nourishes the fertilized ovum and the fetus. The ovaries are
responsible for ovulation and production of estrogen; the uterus is responsible for cyclic menstruation. The vaginal vestibule is an
external organ that has openings to the urethra and vagina; the uterus is responsible for cyclic menstruation. The urethra is not a
reproductive organ, although it is found in the area.

Question 18

The body part that both protects the pelvic structures and accommodates the growing fetus during pregnancy is the:

a. perineum.
b. bony pelvis.
c. vaginal vestibule.
d. fourchette.

Answer 18

ANS: B
The bony pelvis protects and accommodates the growing fetus. The perineum covers the pelvic structures. The vaginal vestibule
contains openings to the urethra and vagina. The fourchette is formed by the labia minor.

Question 19

A fully matured endometrium that has reached the thickness of heavy, soft velvet describes the \_\_\_\_\_ phase of the endometrial 
cycle.
a. menstrual
b. proliferative
c. secretory
d. ischemic

Answer 19

ANS: C
The secretory phase extends from the day of ovulation to approximately 3 days before the next menstrual cycle. During this phase,
the endometrium becomes fully mature. During the menstrual phase, the endometrium is being shed; the endometrium is fully
mature again during the secretory phase. The proliferative phase is a period of rapid growth, but the endometrium becomes fully
mature again during the secretory phase. During the ischemic phase, the blood supply is blocked, and necrosis develops. The
endometrium is fully mature during the secretory phase.

Question 20

The stimulated release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone is part of the:

a. menstrual cycle.
b. endometrial cycle.
c. ovarian cycle.
d. hypothalamic-pituitary cycle

Answer 20

ANS: D
The menstrual, endometrial, and ovarian cycles are interconnected. However, the cyclic release of hormones is the function of the
hypothalamus and pituitary glands

Question 21

Certain fatty acids classified as hormones that are found in many body tissues and that have roles in many reproductive functions
are known as:
a. gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
b. prostaglandins (PGs).
c. follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
d. luteinizing hormone (LH).

Answer 21

ANS: B
PGs affect smooth muscle contraction and changes in the cervix. GnRH, FSH, and LH are part of the hypothalamic-pituitary cycle,
which responds to the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone.

Question 22

Which statement regarding female sexual response is inaccurate?
a. Women and men are more alike than different in their physiologic response to
sexual arousal and orgasm.
b. Vasocongestion is the congestion of blood vessels.
c. The orgasmic phase is the final state of the sexual response cycle.
d. Facial grimaces and spasms of hands and feet are often part of arousal.

Answer 22

ANS: C
The final state of the sexual response cycle is the resolution phase after orgasm. Men and women are surprisingly alike.
Vasocongestion causes vaginal lubrication and engorgement of the genitals. Arousal is characterized by increased muscular tension
(myotonia)

Question 23

As part of their participation in the gynecologic portion of the physical examination, nurses should:
a. take a firm approach that encourages the patient to facilitate the examination by
following the physician’s instructions exactly.
b. explain the procedure as it unfolds and continue to question the patient to get
information in a timely manner.
c. take the opportunity to explain that the trendy vulvar self-examination is only for
women at risk for cancer.
d. Help the woman relax through proper placement of her hands and proper
breathing during the examination.

Answer 23

ANS: D
Breathing techniques are important relaxation techniques that can help the patient during the examination. The nurse should
encourage the patient to participate in an active partnership with the care provider. Explanations during the procedure are fine, but
many women are uncomfortable answering questions in the exposed and awkward position of the examination. Vulvar
self-examination on a regular basis should be encouraged and taught during the examination

Question 24

During which phase of the cycle of violence does the batterer become contrite and remorseful?

a. Battering phase
b. Honeymoon phase
c. Tension-building phase
d. Increased drug-taking phase

Answer 24

ANS: B
During the tension-building phase, the batterer becomes increasingly hostile, swears, threatens, and throws things. This is followed
by the battering phase where violence actually occurs, and the victim feels powerless. During the honeymoon phase, the victim of
IPV wants to believe that the battering will never happen again, and the batterer will promise anything to get back into the home.
Often the batterer increases the use of drugs during the tension-building phase.

Question 25

A patient at 24 weeks of gestation says she has a glass of wine with dinner every evening. The nurse will counsel her to eliminate
all alcohol intake because:
a. a daily consumption of alcohol indicates a risk for alcoholism.
b. she will be at risk for abusing other substances as well.
c. the fetus is placed at risk for altered brain growth.
d. the fetus is at risk for multiple organ anomalies

Answer 25

ANS: C
There is no period during pregnancy when it is safe to consume alcohol. The documented effects of alcohol consumption during
pregnancy include intellectual disability, learning disabilities, high activity level, and short attention span. The brain grows most
rapidly in the third trimester and is vulnerable to alcohol exposure during this time. Abuse of other substances has not been linked
to alcohol use

Question 26

As a powerful central nervous system stimulant, which of these substances can lead to miscarriage, preterm labor, placental 
separation (abruption), and stillbirth?
a. Heroin
b. Alcohol
c. PCP
d. Cocaine

Answer 26

ANS: D
Cocaine is a powerful CNS stimulant. Effects on pregnancy associated with cocaine use include abruptio placentae, preterm labor,
precipitous birth, and stillbirth. Heroin is an opiate. Its use in pregnancy is associated with preeclampsia, intrauterine growth
restriction, miscarriage, premature rupture of membranes, infections, breech presentation, and preterm labor. The most serious
effect of alcohol use in pregnancy is fetal alcohol syndrome. The major concerns regarding PCP use in pregnant women are its
association with polydrug abuse and the neurobehavioral effects on the neonate.

Question 27

The microscopic examination of scrapings from the cervix, endocervix, or other mucous membranes to detect premalignant or 
malignant cells is called:
a. bimanual palpation.
b. rectovaginal palpation.
c. a Papanicolaou (Pap) test.
d. a four As procedure

Answer 27

ANS: C
The Pap test is a microscopic examination for cancer that should be performed regularly, depending on the patient’s age. Bimanual
palpation is a physical examination of the vagina. Rectovaginal palpation is a physical examination performed through the rectum.
The four As is an intervention procedure to help a patient stop smoking

Question 28

As a girl progresses through development, she may be at risk for a number of age-related conditions. While preparing a 21-year-old
patient for her first adult physical examination and Papanicolaou (Pap) test, the nurse is aware of excessiveness shyness. The young
woman states that she will not remove her bra because, “There is something wrong with my breasts; one is way bigger.” What is
the best response by the nurse in this situation?
a. “Please reschedule your appointment until you are more prepared.”
b. “It is okay; the provider will not do a breast examination.”
c. “I will explain normal growth and breast development to you.”
d. “That is unfortunate; this must be very stressful for you.”

Answer 28

ANS: C
During adolescence, one breast may grow faster than the other. Discussion regarding this aspect of growth and development with
the patient will reassure her that there may be nothing wrong with her breasts. Young women usually enter the health system for
screening (Pap tests begin at age 21 or 3 years after first sexual activity). Situations such as these can produce great stress for the
young woman, and the nurse and health care provider should treat her carefully. Asking her to reschedule would likely result in the
patient’s not returning for her appointment at all. A breast examination at her age is part of the complete physical examination.
Young women should be taught about normal breast development and begin doing breast self-examinations. Although the last
response shows empathy on the part of the nurse and acknowledges the patient’s stress, it does not correct the patient’s deficient
knowledge related to normal growth and development

Question 29

Which statement by the patient indicates that she understands breast self-examination?

a. “I will examine both breasts in two different positions.”
b. “I will perform breast self-examination 1 week after my menstrual period starts.”
c. “I will examine the outer upper area of the breast only.”
d. “I will use the palm of the hand to perform the examination.

Answer 29

ANS: B
The woman should examine her breasts when hormonal influences are at their lowest level. The patient should be instructed to use
four positions: standing with arms at her sides, standing with arms raised above her head, standing with hands pressed against hips,
and lying down. The entire breast needs to be examined, including the outer upper area. The patient should use the sensitive pads of
the middle three fingers

Question 30

A pregnant woman who abuses cocaine admits to exchanging sex for her drug habit. This behavior places her at a greater risk for:

a. depression of the central nervous system.
b. hypotension and vasodilation.
c. sexually transmitted diseases.
d. postmature birth

Answer 30

ANS: C
Sex acts exchanged for drugs places the woman at increased risk for sexually transmitted diseases because of multiple partners and
lack of protection. Cocaine is a central nervous system stimulant that causes hypertension and vasoconstriction. Premature delivery
of the infant is one of the most common problems associated with cocaine use during pregnancy.

Question 31

A woman who is older than 35 years may have difficulty achieving pregnancy primarily because:

a. personal risk behaviors influence fertility.
b. she has used contraceptives for an extended time.
c. her ovaries may be affected by the aging process.
d. prepregnancy medical attention is lacking.

Answer 31

ANS: C
Once the mature woman decides to conceive, a delay in becoming pregnant may occur because of the normal aging of the ovaries.
Older adults participate in fewer risk behaviors than younger adults. The past use of contraceptives is not the problem.
Prepregnancy medical care is both available and encouraged

Question 32

The most dangerous effect on the fetus of a mother who smokes cigarettes while pregnant is:

a. genetic changes and anomalies.
b. extensive central nervous system damage.
c. fetal addiction to the substance inhaled.
d. intrauterine growth restriction

Answer 32

ANS: D
The major consequences of smoking tobacco during pregnancy are low-birth-weight infants, prematurity, and increased perinatal
loss. Cigarettes normally will not cause genetic changes or extensive central nervous system damage. Addiction to tobacco is not a
usual concern related to the neonate

Question 33

Despite warnings, prenatal exposure to alcohol continues to exceed by far exposure to illicit drugs. A diagnosis of fetal alcohol
syndrome (FAS) is made when there are visible markers in each of three categories. Which category is not associated with the
diagnosis of FAS?
a. Respiratory conditions
b. Impaired growth
c. CNS abnormality
d. Craniofacial dysmorphologies

Answer 33

ANS: A
Respiratory difficulties are not a category of conditions that are related to FAS. Abnormalities related to FAS include organ
deformities, genital malformations, and kidney and urinary defects. Impaired growth is a visible marker for FAS. CNS
abnormalities with neurologic and intellectual impairments are categories used to assist in the diagnosis of FAS. An infant with
FAS manifests at least two craniofacial abnormalities, such as microcephaly, short palpebral fissures, poorly developed philtrum,
thin upper lip, or flattening of the maxilla