Which is an another term used for the umbilical cord?

Appeared in: ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (shift-1)

Explanation

Funis is the correct term, derived from the Latin word for 'cord'.
Medical texts, such as Williams Obstetrics, use 'funis' and 'funiculus umbilicalis' as synonyms for the umbilical cord.
The umbilical cord is the vital lifeline that connects the fetus to the placenta, facilitating the transfer of nutrients and oxygen.

Option A: Omphalon refers to the umbilicus or navel (the 'belly button'), which is the site where the umbilical cord attaches to the fetus, but it is not the cord itself.
Option B: The amnion is the innermost fetal membrane that surrounds the fetus and contains the amniotic fluid. It also forms the outer covering of the umbilical cord but is not the cord itself.
Option C: The chorion is the outermost fetal membrane that lies against the uterine wall and contributes to the formation of the placenta.

Visual 1: Diagram - An illustration showing the fetus in the uterus, clearly labeling the umbilical cord (Funis), placenta, amnion, and chorion to differentiate between the structures.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy and terminology of the umbilical cord and fetal membranes as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must use precise anatomical terminology for accurate documentation and clear communication with the healthcare team.
A key nursing assessment immediately after delivery is inspecting the cut end of the umbilical cord to confirm the presence of three vessels: two arteries and one vein (AVA).
The presence of only a single umbilical artery (SUA) is a soft marker for potential congenital anomalies, particularly cardiac and renal defects, and warrants closer neonatal evaluation.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of anatomical terminology related to pregnancy.
First, identify the key term in the question stem, which is 'umbilical cord'.
Next, evaluate each option based on its specific definition in obstetrics and embryology.
Eliminate options that refer to related but distinct structures. 'Amnion' and 'Chorion' are the fetal membranes, not the cord.
Differentiate between 'Omphalon' (the navel/attachment point) and 'Funis' (the cord itself).
Select the option that is a direct synonym for the umbilical cord.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Anatomy and terminology of the umbilical cord and fetal membranes
Stem keywords: umbilical cord, another term
Lead-in keywords: Which is

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