A pregnant client asks a nurse a about the purpose of the placenta. The nurse response most appropriately by telling the client that the placenta
A. Cushions and protects the fetus
B. Maintains the body temperature of the fetus
C. Prevents antibodies and viruses from passing to the fetus
D. Provides an exchange of nutrients and waste products between the mother and fetus
Correct Answer: D. Provides an exchange of nutrients and waste products between the mother and fetus
Explanation
Explanation: Purpose of the Placenta
The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy and connects the fetus to the mother through the umbilical cord. Its most important and correct purpose is:
✅ Provides an exchange of nutrients and waste products between the mother and fetus
Detailed explanation:
- The placenta allows oxygen and nutrients (such as glucose, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals) from the mother’s blood to pass into the fetal circulation.
- At the same time, it removes carbon dioxide and metabolic waste products from the fetus and transfers them back to the mother for excretion.
- This exchange occurs without the mother’s and fetus’s blood directly mixing.
Why other functions are less appropriate as the main answer:
- Cushioning and protection of the fetus – This is mainly the function of amniotic fluid, not the placenta.
- Maintaining fetal body temperature – Also primarily the role of amniotic fluid and the maternal environment.
- Prevention of all antibodies and viruses – The placenta actually allows some antibodies (IgG) to pass to the fetus to provide passive immunity, so it does not completely block them.
🩺 Final nursing answer:
The nurse should explain that the placenta’s primary purpose is to provide the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and the fetus, supporting fetal growth and development throughout pregnancy.
Other Options Details
These options describe different functions of the placenta and amniotic fluid. Below is a clear explanation of each option, with the structure to which it mainly applies.
A. Cushions and protects the fetus
- This is a function of amniotic fluid.
- Amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus and acts as a shock absorber, protecting it from external pressure, trauma, and sudden movements.
- It also allows free fetal movement, which is important for muscle and skeletal development.
B. Maintains the body temperature of the fetus
- This is also a function of amniotic fluid.
- The fluid maintains a constant warm temperature, protecting the fetus from sudden temperature changes in the mother’s body.
- This stable environment is essential for normal fetal growth.
C. Prevents antibodies and viruses from passing to the fetus
- This statement is incorrect as written.
- The placenta does not prevent antibodies from passing; instead, maternal IgG antibodies cross the placenta and provide passive immunity to the fetus.
- Some viruses and harmful substances can cross the placenta, although it does act as a partial barrier.
- Therefore, this option is not a true function.
D. Provides an exchange of nutrients and waste products between the mother and fetus
- This is the main function of the placenta.
- The placenta allows:
- Transfer of oxygen and nutrients (glucose, amino acids, electrolytes) from mother to fetus
- Removal of carbon dioxide and metabolic waste from fetus to mother
- It also has endocrine functions, producing hormones like hCG, progesterone, and estrogen.
Summary
- A & B → Amniotic fluid
- C → Incorrect statement
- D → Placenta (correct answer if single best option is asked)
If you want, I can also convert this into MCQ format with the correct answer highlighted or short exam-ready notes.
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group