A nurse is reviewing the results of a nonstress test for a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation.
Which of the following findings indicates a reactive nonstress test?
Fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations occur with fetal movement.
Late decelerations of the FHR occur with contractions.
Variable decelerations of the FHR.
FHR pattern with minimal variability.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations with fetal movement are a sign of a healthy and reactive nonstress test. This indicates that the fetus is well-oxygenated and there is no immediate distress.
Choice B rationale
Late decelerations of the FHR occur with contractions and are a concern for fetal hypoxia. This does not indicate a reactive nonstress test and instead suggests the need for further evaluation.
Choice C rationale
Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in FHR and could indicate umbilical cord compression. This does not correlate with a reactive nonstress test.
Choice D rationale
FHR pattern with minimal variability can be a sign of fetal distress or compromised oxygenation. It is not indicative of a reactive nonstress test.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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Preterm Labor Risk: At 32 weeks of gestation, regular contractions every 5 minutes could indicate the onset of preterm labor. This is concerning because preterm labor can lead to preterm birth, which poses significant risks to the baby's health and development.
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Frequency and Intensity: These contractions are occurring frequently (every 5 minutes) and are described as stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions. This frequency and the strength of the contractions are unusual for Braxton Hicks, which are typically irregular and less intense.
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Effacement and Cervical Changes: Although the cervix is closed, it is 80% effaced. Effacement means the cervix is thinning, which, in combination with regular contractions, may indicate that the body is preparing for labor.
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Urinary Leakage: The client also reported urinary leakage earlier in the day, which could be a sign of ruptured membranes (water breaking). This, combined with regular contractions, increases the need for careful monitoring.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking fetal heart tones is the priority to assess the well-being of the fetus, especially in breech presentation and after the membranes have ruptured.
Choice B rationale
Preparing for a cesarean birth is important but follows the assessment of fetal heart tones and other immediate measures.
Choice C rationale
Checking the color, amount, and odor of the fluid is important, but ensuring fetal heart tones comes first to monitor any distress.
Choice D rationale
Performing a Nitrazine test to assess for rupture of membranes is redundant once the client reports her water has broken.