Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

Gestational diabetes screening is commonly performed between 24 to 28 weeks of gestation as part of routine prenatal care. This screening is essential because it helps to identify women who develop gestational diabetes, a condition that can have significant implications for both the mother and the developing fetus.

During this period, the placenta becomes more active in producing hormones that can affect insulin’s function, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels. The typical method for this screening involves a glucose challenge test, where a patient consumes a glucose solution, and plasma glucose levels are then measured after a specified period. If the initial results indicate elevated glucose levels, a more comprehensive oral glucose tolerance test may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.

This screening is vital for early intervention, which can help manage blood sugar levels effectively and reduce the risk of complications such as larger birth weight or preterm delivery. Therefore, the timing and importance of gestational diabetes screening make it the correct answer among the options presented.