On the first prenatal visit, the woman’s cervix feels softened upon examination. The nurse records this finding as: Select one:
A.
Homans’ sign.
B.
Chadwick’s sign.
C.
Goodell’s sign.
D.
McDonald’s sign.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Goodell’s sign.
Explanation:
Goodell’s sign refers to the softening of the cervix that occurs during early pregnancy. This sign is one of the classic signs of pregnancy, which can be detected during a pelvic examination. It results from increased blood flow and hormonal changes, primarily due to elevated levels of progesterone, which cause the cervical tissue to become more vascular and edematous.
Here’s a breakdown of the other options for clarity:
- A. Homans’ sign: This sign is associated with the assessment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It is determined by dorsiflexing the foot to see if it elicits pain in the calf, which is a potential indicator of DVT. This is not related to cervical changes during pregnancy.
- B. Chadwick’s sign: This sign refers to the bluish discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and labia due to increased blood flow. It is another early pregnancy indicator but involves color changes rather than softening.
- D. McDonald’s sign: This sign indicates the ease with which the uterus can be flexed against the cervix, demonstrating the softening of the uterine segment. Although this is related to pregnancy, it pertains to the flexibility of the uterine body rather than the cervix itself.
Goodell’s sign is a reliable indicator observed during a physical examination. It occurs due to the hormonal changes that increase vascularization and alter the consistency of the cervix. Identifying this sign helps confirm the presence of pregnancy and allows healthcare providers to monitor the progress and health of the pregnancy effectively. Understanding these signs helps in early pregnancy assessment and ensures appropriate prenatal care.