A client suspects she is pregnant and comes for prenatal evaluation. Which assessment findings indicate definitive evidence (positive signs) of pregnancy? Select all that apply.

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11ecbb05_cbf5_161a_b433_376e98ee8cf6_MD0009_00 Positive (diagnostic) signs of pregnancy represent conclusive evidence of pregnancy and cannot be attributed to any other etiology. These signs include a discernible fetal heartbeat heard by Doppler device, ultrasound visualization of the fetus, and fetal movement palpated or observed by the health care provider (HCP) (Options B and E). Presumptive (subjective) signs of pregnancy are self-reported by the client (eg, breast tenderness, nausea, amenorrhea). These signs may be related to other medical conditions and therefore cannot be considered diagnostic of pregnancy. Probable (objective) signs of pregnancy are observed by the HCP during assessment and examination (eg, cervical changes, positive pregnancy test). Combined with subjective signs, objective signs may be more indicative of pregnancy but may still have alternate causes. (Option A) Cervical softening is an objective sign of pregnancy as it may also be caused by other conditions that result in pelvic congestion (eg, use of hormonal contraceptives, uterine tumors). (Option C) A positive serum pregnancy test, which reports elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin, is considered an objective sign of pregnancy. Gestational trophoblastic disease can also cause positive results. (Option D) The client's perception of fetal movement, known as quickening, is a presumptive sign of pregnancy. Educational objective: Positive signs of pregnancy represent conclusive evidence of pregnancy. These signs include ultrasound visualization of the fetus, a distinguishable fetal heartbeat heard by Doppler device, and fetal movement palpated or observed by the health care provider.

A Client Suspects She Is Pregnant and Comes for Prenatal