North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the North American Registry of Midwives Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

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How long can smoking two cigarettes decrease fetal activity?

40 minutes
60 minutes
80 minutes
100 minutes

The correct answer is: 80 minutes

The correct answer is that smoking two cigarettes can decrease fetal activity for about 80 minutes. Nicotine, a primary component of cigarettes, is a potent stimulant that can have immediate effects on the fetus, including a reduction in fetal movements. This reduction in activity is directly related to the nicotine and other harmful substances entering the maternal bloodstream, subsequently affecting the fetus’s baseline level of activity. Studies have shown that maternal smoking is correlated with decreased fetal heart rate variability and reduced motor activity for a duration that can last around 80 minutes. Prolonged exposure to nicotine can also lead to lasting effects on fetal development and behavior, which underscores the importance of avoiding tobacco during pregnancy to promote optimal fetal health.