The nurse observes variable decelerations on the fetal monitor tracing.
Which of the following is a correct interpretation of this finding?
Variable decelerations are related to the use of narcotic analgesics.
Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression.
Variable decelerations are caused by maternal hypotension.
Variable decelerations are indicative of fetal hypoxia.
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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The presenting part being 2 cm below the ischial spines would be documented as +2 station, indicating that the fetal head is descending well into the pelvis.
Choice B rationale
The presenting part being 2 cm above the ischial spines is correctly documented as -2 station. This indicates that the fetal head is still relatively high in the pelvis and has not yet descended to the level of the ischial spines.
Choice C rationale
The presenting part being at the level of the ischial spines is documented as 0 station. This is the midpoint of the pelvis and indicates that the fetal head is engaged.
Choice D rationale
The presenting part being 2 cm below the cervix is not a standard way to describe fetal station. Station is measured relative to the ischial spines, not the cervix.
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.