When interpreting a fetal monitoring tracing, which of the following findings would require the nurse to intervene?
Presence of late decelerations.
Variability in fetal heart rate of 12 bpm.
Accelerations in fetal heart rate.
Baseline fetal heart rate of 140 bpm.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The occiput anterior (OA) position is considered the optimal fetal position for vaginal birth. In this position, the baby’s head is down, and the back of the head (occiput) is facing the mother’s front. This position allows for the most efficient passage through the birth canal.
Choice B rationale
The occiput posterior (OP) position, where the baby’s head is down but facing the mother’s back, can lead to a longer and more painful labor. It is not considered optimal for vaginal birth.
Choice C rationale
Breech positions, where the baby’s buttocks or feet are positioned to come out first, are not optimal for vaginal birth and often require a cesarean section due to the increased risk of complications.
Choice D rationale
The transverse position, where the baby is lying sideways across the uterus, is not suitable for vaginal birth. This position typically requires a cesarean section to safely deliver the baby.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This statement is incorrect. Vagus nerve stimulation actually decreases FHR variability. The vagus nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system, slows the heart rate and reduces variability.
Choice B rationale
This statement is correct. Baroreceptors are sensors located in blood vessels that help regulate blood pressure by detecting changes in the stretch of the vessel walls. They play a crucial role in maintaining stable blood pressure levels.
Choice C rationale
This statement is correct. The autonomic nervous system, which includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, controls the fetal heart rate. It regulates the balance between heart rate acceleration and deceleration.
Choice D rationale
This statement is correct. Chemoreceptors respond to changes in blood gas levels, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. They help regulate respiratory and cardiovascular responses to maintain homeostasis.