PMC Circulatory & Lymphatic Considerations Flashcards
6 cards from real PMC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 PMC Circulatory & Lymphatic Considerations flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes the cardiac change most relevant to prenatal massage planning?
Answer: Cardiac output increases by 30–50%, meaning the cardiovascular system is under greater stress
Cardiac output rises substantially to handle increased blood volume, meaning the therapist must avoid positions or techniques that further stress the cardiovascular system.
What is the significance of the increased clotting factors during pregnancy for massage therapists?
Answer: It raises the risk of thromboembolism, making deep work over major vessels contraindicated
Elevated clotting factors make pregnant clients particularly vulnerable to DVT, so vigorous deep work near major vessels is contraindicated.
Hemorrhoids during pregnancy are primarily caused by which circulatory factor?
Answer: Increased venous pressure in the pelvic region and constipation from uterine compression
Uterine pressure increases pelvic venous pressure and slows bowel transit, leading to straining and hemorrhoid formation.
How should the therapist modify massage for a client with preeclampsia-related edema versus normal pregnancy edema?
Answer: Refer the client to her provider and do not proceed with massage until cleared, as preeclampsia is a medical emergency
Preeclampsia is a life-threatening hypertensive disorder; massage is contraindicated until the provider confirms it is safe.
Which lymphatic structure, if compressed by the growing uterus, contributes most to lower extremity lymphedema in pregnancy?
Answer: The thoracic duct and cisterna chyli
The cisterna chyli and thoracic duct collect lymph from the lower body; uterine compression of these structures impairs drainage and causes leg lymphedema.
After a prenatal massage session, a client stands up too quickly and feels lightheaded. The therapist should:
Answer: Have the client sit at the edge of the table for several minutes before standing, and offer water
Postural hypotension is common after massage in pregnancy; a slow transition from lying to standing prevents dizziness and potential falls.