Pulsation in the lateral vaginal fornix due to increased blood supply is known as:

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

Explanation

Osiander's sign is defined as the increased pulsation felt through the lateral vaginal fornices.
This sign is typically detectable from the 8th week of pregnancy onwards.
The pulsation is caused by the significant increase in blood flow through the uterine arteries to support the growing uterus and fetus.
It is considered a probable sign of pregnancy, meaning it is highly suggestive but not definitive.

Option A: Jacquemier’s sign (also known as Chadwick's sign) refers to a color change (bluish/violet discoloration) of the vaginal mucosa due to vascular congestion, not a palpable pulsation.
Option C: Goodell’s sign is the softening of the cervix. It is a change in the texture or consistency of the cervix, not a pulsation.
Option D: Hegar’s sign is the softening of the lower uterine segment (isthmus). This change in consistency makes the cervix and uterine body feel separable on bimanual examination. It is not a pulsation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Probable signs of early pregnancy helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Recognizing the probable signs of pregnancy, such as Osiander's sign, is a fundamental skill for nurses and midwives during early antenatal assessment.
The presence of these signs, while not definitive proof of pregnancy, provides strong evidence and justifies further confirmatory tests like urine/blood hCG tests and ultrasonography.
Educating the patient about these normal physiological changes can help reduce anxiety and increase her understanding of her pregnancy.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of specific obstetric terminology (eponyms for pregnancy signs).
First, identify the key clinical finding described in the question stem: 'Pulsation in the lateral vaginal fornix'.
Next, systematically review the definition of each option provided.
Match the specific finding (a palpable pulsation) with its correct name. Osiander's sign is the term for this pulsation.
Differentiate this from the other signs by recalling their definitions: Jacquemier's (color change), Goodell's (cervical softening), and Hegar's (lower uterine segment softening).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 7-12

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.