Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP) Test
Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP) Test ( 5 Questions)
A pregnant client asks the nurse about the risks associated with the MSAFP test.
What is the nurse's best response?
“The MSAFP test carries a risk of miscarriage.” This statement is wrong because the MSAFP test is a blood test that does not involve any invasive procedures or harm to the baby.
The MSAFP test is a screening test that measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the mother’s blood. AFP is a protein produced by the baby during pregnancy. The test helps to assess the baby’s risk of certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities.
“The MSAFP test may cause harm to the fetus.” This statement is wrong because the MSAFP test does not affect the fetus in any way. It only measures the amount of AFP in the mother’s blood.
“Pregnant individuals should avoid the MSAFP test due to potential radiation exposure.” This statement is wrong because the MSAFP test does not involve any radiation exposure. It is a simple blood test that uses a needle to draw blood from a vein.
The MSAFP test is a screening test that measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the mother’s blood.
AFP is a protein produced by the baby during pregnancy. The test helps to assess the baby’s risk of certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities.
A. “The MSAFP test carries a risk of miscarriage.” This statement is wrong because the MSAFP test is a blood test that does not involve any invasive procedures or harm to the baby.
C. “The MSAFP test may cause harm to the fetus.” This statement is wrong because the MSAFP test does not affect the fetus in any way. It only measures the amount of AFP in the mother’s blood.
D. “Pregnant individuals should avoid the MSAFP test due to potential radiation exposure.” This statement is wrong because the MSAFP test does not involve any radiation exposure. It is a simple blood test that uses a needle to draw blood from a vein.
The normal range of MSAFP levels varies depending on the gestational age of the baby and the laboratory methods used. Generally, the MSAFP levels increase until about 15 weeks of pregnancy and then decrease until delivery. The average MSAFP level at 16 weeks of pregnancy is about 44 ng/mL. However, different laboratories may have different reference ranges, so it is important to consult your healthcare provider for your specific results and interpretation.