Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam

What characterizes a velamentous cord insertion?

1. Fetal vessels enter the placental surface through a single cord

2. Fetal vessels run across the chorion and amnion without protection

3. Presence of an accessory lobe of placental tissue

4. Vessels are located within the placental tissue

The correct answer is: Fetal vessels run across the chorion and amnion without protection

In a velamentous cord insertion, fetal vessels are not securely protected by the placental tissue, as they traverse the membranes of the placenta, specifically running across the chorion and amnion before attaching to the placenta. This lack of protective tissue surrounding the vessels makes them vulnerable to rupture or injury, particularly during labor and delivery, leading to potential complications such as vasa previa. The defining feature of this condition is the exposed nature of the vessels, which increases risks associated with pregnancy, such as hemorrhage if these vessels rupture, requiring careful monitoring and often intervention during delivery to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus. Understanding this condition emphasizes the importance of recognizing fetal vascular anatomy in relation to placental positioning and the risks involved, thus reinforcing the critical role of vigilant prenatal care and assessment in obstetric practice.