North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

How are extensive infarctions of cotyledons typically interpreted in clinical practice?

1. As a sign of normal placental variation

2. As evidence of optimal fetal health

3. As signals of underlying disease processes

4. As irrelevant findings during delivery

The correct answer is: As signals of underlying disease processes

Extensive infarctions of cotyledons are interpreted as signals of underlying disease processes because they often indicate disruption in blood flow or oxygen supply to the placenta. These infarctions can stem from conditions such as maternal hypertension, thrombophilia, or placental abruption. In clinical practice, when healthcare providers identify extensive infarctions, they typically investigate further to determine the cause and assess the potential impact on both maternal and fetal health. Recognizing these infarctions as indicators of underlying issues is crucial for intervention and management, which could involve monitoring for complications or considering delivery options to ensure the well-being of both the mother and child. Such findings are not regarded as normal variations or irrelevant during delivery, but rather as important signals that require close attention and may necessitate further clinical evaluation.