Umbilical cord contains-

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2023

Explanation

A mature umbilical cord is composed of three vessels: one vein and two arteries.
The single, large umbilical vein is responsible for delivering oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus.
The two smaller umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood and metabolic waste products away from the fetus to the placenta.
This entire structure is encased in a protective, gelatinous substance known as Wharton's jelly.

Option A: This describes a two-vessel cord, which is an anatomical abnormality, not the normal structure.
Option C: This configuration is not found in a mature umbilical cord.
Option D: This describes a four-vessel cord, which is not the normal anatomy for a human umbilical cord.

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.
In the delivery room, it is a standard nursing practice to inspect the clamped umbilical cord stump to confirm the presence of all three vessels (two arteries and one vein).
The absence of one artery (a two-vessel cord or SUA) is a significant finding that must be documented and communicated to the pediatric team, as it can be a soft marker for underlying cardiac, renal, or chromosomal abnormalities.
What if? If the nurse identifies only two vessels (one artery, one vein), the standard of care is to notify the pediatrician or neonatal team. This finding may prompt a more detailed physical examination of the newborn and potentially an ultrasound to screen for hidden anomalies, particularly of the kidneys and heart.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing fundamental knowledge of fetal anatomy.
Identify the key term in the question: 'Umbilical cord'.
Recall the standard anatomical composition of the umbilical cord. A helpful mnemonic is 'AVA', which stands for Artery-Vein-Artery, indicating two arteries and one vein.
Remember the function: the vein brings oxygenated blood 'in' to the fetus, while the two arteries take deoxygenated blood 'away'.
Systematically evaluate each option against this known fact.
Select the option that correctly states 'One vein two arteries'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QvISWo7I7srv1SY9whn4oW

E6 Histology Inderbir 11e p. 5-7

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 71-95

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2023

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