The labor and delivery nurse is caring for a client in active labor.
The nurse notes the fetal heart rate baseline is 175 bpm, moderate variability.
Accelerations are absent and no decelerations noted.
How should the nurse describe this tracing to the medical provider?
Category I.
Category II.
Category III.
Category IV.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Category I tracings are considered normal and are associated with a well-oxygenated, non-acidotic fetus with a normal fetal heart rate baseline, moderate variability, and no late or variable decelerations. However, a baseline heart rate of 175 bpm is considered tachycardia, which does not fit the criteria for Category I.
Choice B rationale
Category II tracings are indeterminate and include any fetal heart rate pattern that does not fit into Category I or III. A baseline heart rate of 175 bpm with moderate variability and no accelerations or decelerations fits into this category. This indicates that the fetus may be experiencing some stress but is not in immediate danger.
Choice C rationale
Category III tracings are abnormal and are associated with an increased risk of fetal acidemia. These tracings include absent baseline variability with recurrent late or variable decelerations, bradycardia, or a sinusoidal pattern. The given tracing does not meet these criteria as it shows moderate variability and no decelerations.
Choice D rationale
There is no Category IV in the classification of fetal heart rate tracings. The standard classification includes only Categories I, II, and III.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring the fetal heart rate is the next appropriate action. The fetal heart rate provides crucial information about the fetus’s well-being and can help identify any potential issues that may need further intervention.
Choice B rationale
Monitoring uterine contractions is important, but in this scenario, the client’s vital signs are stable, and there is no indication of labor. Therefore, monitoring the fetal heart rate takes precedence.
Choice C rationale
Amniotic fluid levels are important to monitor, but they are typically assessed through ultrasound rather than immediate bedside monitoring. The fetal heart rate provides more immediate information about the fetus’s condition.
Choice D rationale
Cervical dilation is relevant during labor, but there is no indication that the client is in labor based on the provided vital signs. Monitoring the fetal heart rate is more pertinent in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the client to continue pushing is not appropriate at this stage. The client is 9 cm dilated, which indicates that she is in the transition phase of labor, not yet fully dilated and ready to push. Pushing at this stage could cause cervical swelling and delay progress.
Choice B rationale
Preparing the client for delivery is the most appropriate action. The client is in the transition phase of labor, with 9 cm dilation, 100% effacement, and +1 station. This indicates that delivery is imminent, and the nurse should prepare for the birth process.
Choice C rationale
Administering pain relief as prescribed may be considered, but it is not the priority action at this stage. The client is in the transition phase, and administering pain relief could interfere with the natural progression of labor. Non-pharmacological support may be more appropriate.
Choice D rationale
Reassuring the client and providing emotional support is important, but it is not the primary action at this stage. The nurse should focus on preparing for delivery while also providing support and reassurance.