What is a positive sign of pregnancy?

A positive sign of pregnancy refers to objective evidence that confirms the presence of a fetus. The palpation of the fetus and the auscultation of fetal heart tones by the nurse practitioner constitute definitive signs of pregnancy. These observations are considered unequivocal because they provide clear physical evidence of fetal development.

Palpation of the fetus involves the healthcare provider using their hands to feel the shape, size, and position of the fetus within the uterus, while auscultation of fetal heart tones involves using a Doppler device or a stethoscope to hear the heartbeat of the fetus. Both methods are clinical observations that indicate the presence of a fetus and are conclusive indicators of pregnancy.

In contrast, other choices involve subjective indicators, such as maternal sensations of movement or rely on diagnostic tests whose results can sometimes be influenced by other factors, like hCG levels in the serum. Positive pregnancy tests using quantitative serum measures, while supportive of the pregnancy diagnosis, are biochemical rather than physical signs of a fetus being present.