Final Answer:
When the patient complains of frequency of urination, the nurse explains that frequency of urination early in the pregnancy occurs due to increased circulating volume, thus the correct option is D.
Step-by-step explanation:
During early pregnancy, the increased frequency of urination is primarily attributed to the physiological changes in the body, specifically the increased circulating volume. As the pregnancy progresses, the body undergoes significant alterations to support the developing fetus. One notable change is the increase in blood volume, driven by hormonal influences and the need to provide essential nutrients and oxygen to both the mother and the growing fetus.
The expanded blood volume results in increased fluid filtration through the kidneys, leading to higher urine production. The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining the body's fluid balance, and during pregnancy, they experience an elevated workload due to the heightened metabolic demands. This increased urine production, coupled with the pressure exerted by the growing uterus on the bladder, contributes to the sensation of frequency of urination reported by pregnant individuals.
It's crucial for healthcare professionals, such as nurses, to educate pregnant patients about these normal physiological changes. Understanding the reasons behind increased frequency of urination helps reassure patients that this symptom is a typical part of pregnancy and not necessarily indicative of a problem. This knowledge promotes a sense of normalcy and can alleviate concerns, contributing to a positive pregnancy experience for the patient.