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The nurse observes variable decelerations on the fetal monitor tracing.

 

Which of the following is a correct interpretation of this finding?

A.

Variable decelerations are related to the use of narcotic analgesics.

B.

Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression.

C.

Variable decelerations are caused by maternal hypotension.

D.

Variable decelerations are indicative of fetal hypoxia.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale

 

Variable decelerations are not related to the use of narcotic analgesics. Narcotic analgesics can cause other fetal heart rate changes, such as decreased variability, but they do not cause variable decelerations.

 

Choice B rationale

 

Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression. This is the correct interpretation. Umbilical cord compression can lead to transient decreases in fetal blood flow and oxygenation, resulting in variable decelerations on the fetal monitor tracing.

 

Choice C rationale

 

Variable decelerations are not caused by maternal hypotension. Maternal hypotension can lead to late decelerations due to uteroplacental insufficiency, but it does not cause variable decelerations.

 

Choice D rationale

 

Variable decelerations are not indicative of fetal hypoxia. While severe and persistent variable decelerations can lead to fetal hypoxia, the primary cause of variable decelerations is umbilical cord compression.


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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Late decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency and fetal hypoxia. They occur after the peak of a contraction and indicate that the fetus is not receiving enough oxygen. This requires immediate intervention to improve fetal oxygenation and prevent fetal distress.

Choice B rationale

Variability in fetal heart rate of 12 bpm is considered moderate variability, which is a reassuring sign of fetal well-being. It indicates that the fetus has a healthy autonomic nervous system and is not in distress.

Choice C rationale

Accelerations in fetal heart rate are also a reassuring sign. They indicate that the fetus is well-oxygenated and responding appropriately to stimuli. No intervention is needed for accelerations.

Choice D rationale

A baseline fetal heart rate of 140 bpm is within the normal range (110-160 bpm) and does not indicate any immediate concern. It is a sign of a healthy, well-oxygenated fetus.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Variable decelerations are not related to the use of narcotic analgesics. Narcotic analgesics can cause other fetal heart rate changes, such as decreased variability, but they do not cause variable decelerations.

Choice B rationale

Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression. This is the correct interpretation. Umbilical cord compression can lead to transient decreases in fetal blood flow and oxygenation, resulting in variable decelerations on the fetal monitor tracing.

Choice C rationale

Variable decelerations are not caused by maternal hypotension. Maternal hypotension can lead to late decelerations due to uteroplacental insufficiency, but it does not cause variable decelerations.

Choice D rationale

Variable decelerations are not indicative of fetal hypoxia. While severe and persistent variable decelerations can lead to fetal hypoxia, the primary cause of variable decelerations is umbilical cord compression.

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