Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following is considered a probable sign of pregnancy?

1. Enlarged uterus detected during examination

2. Palpation of the fetus

3. Positive serum pregnancy test

4. Visualized fetal heart on ultrasound

The correct answer is: Enlarged uterus detected during examination

An enlarged uterus detected during examination is classified as a probable sign of pregnancy because it indicates a physiological change in the body associated with gestation. While it is a strong indicator of pregnancy, it is not definitive on its own and can be influenced by other factors such as uterine fibroids or other medical conditions. Probable signs of pregnancy include those observable or detectable by healthcare professionals that suggest the presence of pregnancy but are not exclusively indicative of it. The presence of an enlarged uterus usually becomes noticeable between 6 to 12 weeks of gestation and provides valuable information during a physical examination. In contrast, the palpation of the fetus is a positive sign of pregnancy, as it indicates the definitive presence of the fetus, and similarly, the visualization of the fetal heart on ultrasound also confirms fetal existence. A positive serum pregnancy test offers biochemical confirmation, but it is categorized as a positive sign, too. Thus, knowing that an enlarged uterus is a probable sign helps in the overall assessment and monitoring of a patient's potential pregnancy status.