Part 1- Normal Physiology questions

PART 1 Anatomy and physiology INTRODUCTION It is essential for student midwives to have knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the main systems prior to conception occurring. This will provide a foundation to build on when considering changes which occur as a result of pregnancy. Students are required to have knowledge concerning the expected anatomical and physiological changes which occur in the woman as a result of pregnancy. Although normal, some of these changes have a greater effect than others on the various biological systems. Some of these changes can be clinically observed. Labour is the culmination of pregnancy. In normal circumstances this would be expected to occur between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. Although a continuous process, it is often divided into three stages, namely first, second and third. The following sets of questions relate to all of these stages. Some of the answers will require application of the anatomy and physiology to midwifery clinical practice. The puerperium is the period following pregnancy and labour when the woman’s body systems return to a non-pregnant state. The physical and psychological wellbeing of the mother and her relationship with the baby are assessed by the midwife and health visitor during this time. When describing an anatomical structure you are expected to include its situation in the body, its shape and size, and its gross and microstructure. You should also state the blood, nerve and lymphatic systems. Useful resources Ross and Wilson Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness (11th edition). Anne Waugh and Alison Grant. Churchill Livingstone, Elsevier, 2010. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology International Student Version (13th edition). Gerard J. Tortora and Bryan H. Derrickson. John Wiley and Sons, 2011. www.unicef.org.uk 1
Wightman, Helen, and Robina Aslam. The Midwifery Testbook, McGraw-Hill Education, 2012.