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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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View Related questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

A pulse of 88 bpm is within the normal range for an adult and does not indicate any immediate concern that needs to be reported to the anesthesia provider.

Choice B rationale

A pain level of 1 on a 0 to 10 scale indicates that the epidural is effectively managing the client’s pain. This is a positive outcome and does not require reporting.

Choice C rationale

Blood pressure of 88/52 mmHg indicates hypotension, which is a common and potentially serious side effect of epidural anesthesia. Hypotension can lead to decreased placental perfusion and fetal distress, so it requires immediate attention and reporting to the anesthesia provider.

Choice D rationale

Dizziness can be a side effect of epidural anesthesia, but it is not as critical as hypotension. It should be monitored, but it does not require immediate reporting unless it is severe or accompanied by other symptoms.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test that involves extracting a small amount of amniotic fluid from the uterus to test for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. It is typically performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. The fluid contains fetal cells and various chemicals produced by the baby, which can be analyzed to detect conditions such as Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and neural tube defects. This test is highly accurate and is often recommended when screening tests like the MSAFP indicate a potential issue.

Choice B rationale

A Nonstress Test (NST) is a non-invasive test that measures the fetal heart rate in response to its movements. It is used to assess fetal well-being, particularly in the third trimester, but it does not provide information about chromosomal abnormalities. The NST is typically used to monitor high-risk pregnancies and to ensure that the fetus is receiving enough oxygen.

Choice C rationale

A Biophysical Profile (BPP) combines an ultrasound with a Nonstress Test to evaluate the fetus’s health. It assesses fetal breathing movements, body movements, muscle tone, amniotic fluid volume, and heart rate reactivity. While it provides a comprehensive assessment of fetal well-being, it does not specifically diagnose chromosomal abnormalities. The BPP is often used in the third trimester to monitor high-risk pregnancies.

Choice D rationale

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is another diagnostic test that can detect chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. It involves taking a small sample of placental tissue (chorionic villi) for analysis. CVS is typically performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy, earlier than amniocentesis. While it provides similar diagnostic information, it is not the test of choice following an abnormal MSAFP result, which is usually conducted later in pregnancy.

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