The nurse explains to a patient who has missed a second menstrual cycle that a combination of presumptive and probable signs is used to make a practical diagnosis of pregnancy. Which signs are expected by the nurse when making a practical diagnosis? Select all that apply.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elevated hCG levels in blood and urine, brownish pigmentation on the face (known as melasma or chloasma), and bluish-purple coloration of the vagina and cervix (known as Chadwick's sign) are examples of presumptive signs of pregnancy. These signs are subjective and may also be caused by other factors, so they are not conclusive evidence of pregnancy. Fetal movement detected by the examiner and occasional mild contractions are probable signs of pregnancy, meaning they are more reliable indicators of pregnancy but still not definitive proof.

The Nurse Explains to a Patient Who Has Missed a Second