The nurse is caring for a client in labor at term. The nurse reviews the external monitor tracing below. The nurse identifies that the deceleration pattern seen indicates which of the following?
Early decelerations.
Late decelerations.
Variable decelerations.
Prolonged decelerations.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Early decelerations are characterized by a gradual decrease and return to baseline of the fetal heart rate that coincides with the peak of a contraction. They are typically benign and related to fetal head compression.
Choice B rationale
Late decelerations are characterized by a gradual decrease and return to baseline of the fetal heart rate that occurs after the peak of a contraction. They are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency and require prompt intervention to improve fetal oxygenation.
Choice C rationale
Variable decelerations are characterized by an abrupt decrease in fetal heart rate that varies in duration, intensity, and timing relative to contractions. They are often caused by umbilical cord compression and may require interventions to relieve the compression.
Choice D rationale
Prolonged decelerations are characterized by a decrease in fetal heart rate that lasts longer than 2 minutes but less than 10 minutes. They indicate a more severe and sustained disruption in fetal oxygenation and require immediate intervention.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Breech presentation means the fetus’s buttocks or feet are positioned to be delivered first. Fetal heart tones are often heard above the umbilicus in this position.
Choice B rationale
Transverse lie means the fetus is lying horizontally in the uterus. Fetal heart tones would typically be heard at the sides of the abdomen.
Choice C rationale
Cephalic presentation means the fetus’s head is positioned to be delivered first. Fetal heart tones are usually heard below the umbilicus in this position.
Choice D rationale
Oblique lie means the fetus is positioned diagonally in the uterus. Fetal heart tones can be variable depending on the exact position.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Early decelerations are not caused by umbilical cord compression. Umbilical cord compression typically leads to variable decelerations, which have a different pattern and clinical significance.
Choice B rationale
Early decelerations are not caused by uteroplacental insufficiency. Uteroplacental insufficiency is associated with late decelerations, which occur after the peak of a contraction and indicate reduced blood flow to the fetus.
Choice C rationale
Early decelerations are not a result of the administration of medications. Medications can affect fetal heart rate patterns, but early decelerations are specifically related to fetal head compression.
Choice D rationale
Early decelerations are related to fetal head compression. They occur as the fetal head descends into the maternal pelvis and are generally considered benign, indicating normal labor progression.