Umbilical cord contains of

Appeared in: KGMU 2024

Explanation

A normal umbilical cord at term contains two arteries and one vein.
The single, large umbilical vein carries oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus.
The two smaller, thick-walled umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood and waste products away from the fetus to the placenta.
A helpful mnemonic to remember this is AVA (Artery-Vein-Artery).

Option A: This is the reverse of the normal anatomy. While two umbilical veins are present in the very early embryo, the right vein typically degenerates, leaving only one.
Option C: This configuration of two arteries and two veins is only present during the very early stages of embryonic development.
Option D: This describes a two-vessel cord, which is an anomaly known as a Single Umbilical Artery (SUA). It is not the normal composition.

Visual 1: Diagram - A cross-section of the umbilical cord, clearly labeling the two smaller, thick-walled arteries and the single larger, thin-walled vein, all embedded in Wharton's jelly. This helps visualize the 'Mickey Mouse' appearance often seen on ultrasound.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the umbilical cord as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses are responsible for inspecting the cut end of the umbilical cord at birth to count and document the number of vessels. This is a key part of the initial newborn assessment.
The presence of a two-vessel cord (Single Umbilical Artery) is a significant finding that must be reported, as it may warrant further investigation for associated congenital anomalies.
What if? If a nurse identifies only a two-vessel cord (1 artery, 1 vein), the standard of care requires notifying the pediatrician or neonatologist. The infant will likely undergo a more detailed physical examination and possibly renal ultrasonography to screen for hidden anomalies, as SUA is a soft marker for other conditions.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core of the question, which is asking for the normal anatomical composition of the umbilical cord.
Recognize this as a factual recall question based on fundamental anatomy and physiology of fetal development.
Recall the structure of fetal circulation as it passes through the umbilical cord.
Use the mnemonic 'AVA' (Artery-Vein-Artery) to remember that there are two arteries and one vein.
Compare this knowledge with the given options and select the one that matches: 2 arteries and 1 vein.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full KGMU 2024

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