Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What type of sign does Jane's feeling of the baby's movements classify as?

1. Presumptive sign

2. Probable sign

3. Positive sign

4. Possible sign

The correct answer is: Probable sign

Feeling the baby's movements is classified as a presumptive sign of pregnancy. This type of sign is characterized by symptoms or indications that suggest a woman may be pregnant but are not definitive proof of pregnancy. Presumptive signs can be subjective and may also be attributed to other conditions. Examples include missed periods, nausea, tenderness of the breasts, and fetal movements felt by the mother. While probable signs and positive signs involve more objective evidence or confirmation, such as a positive pregnancy test (probable sign) or visualization of the fetus via ultrasound (positive sign), specific actions or symptoms perceived by the mother, like the movement of the fetus, fall into the category of presumptive signs. Hence, Jane's sensation of her baby's movements aligns with this classification, highlighting the connection between maternal feelings and pregnancy indicators.