The stage of the embryo in which all the body parts can be identified is called a/an\ \ \ \ \ \ \ - RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The foetal period begins around the 9th week of gestation, following the embryonic period.
By this stage, the process of organogenesis (formation of organs) is largely complete.
All major external and internal body parts, such as the head, limbs, hands, feet, and organs, are formed and can be identified.
The rest of the gestational period involves the growth and functional maturation of these already-formed structures.

Option B: A zygote is the single cell that results from the fertilization of an egg by a sperm. It undergoes cell division (cleavage) to become a morula and then a blastocyst, but it does not have identifiable body parts.
Option C: An egg, or ovum, is the female gamete before fertilization. It is a single, unfertilized cell and not a stage of embryonic or foetal development.
Option D: A gamete is a general term for a mature haploid male or female germ cell (sperm or egg) that is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Stages of human prenatal development as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding developmental stages is crucial for patient education, especially when explaining ultrasound results to expectant parents.
It helps in counseling about the effects of teratogens (substances that can cause birth defects). The embryonic period (3-8 weeks) is the most critical time for major congenital malformations as organs are forming.
This knowledge is fundamental for nurses in obstetrics, neonatology, and pediatrics to assess growth and development and identify potential deviations from the norm.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it's asking for a specific stage of prenatal development.
The key phrase is 'all the body parts can be identified'. This is a specific developmental milestone.
Recall the sequence of development: Gamete -> Zygote -> Embryo -> Foetus.
Differentiate the key events of each stage. The embryonic stage is for 'formation' of organs (organogenesis). The foetal stage is for 'growth and maturation' of already-formed parts.
Match the key phrase 'all body parts can be identified' to the correct stage. This description fits the foetus, which looks like a miniature human.
Eliminate the other options: Zygote, egg, and gamete are all pre-embryonic or single-celled stages without differentiated body parts.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QJRGZdVBBINY88I5OjJ_-S

E6 Anatomy Grays 43e Vol 1 Part 3 p. 4-6

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 48-56