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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the client to walk around for 30 minutes and then resume monitoring is not the most appropriate action in this scenario. Walking may help stimulate fetal movement, but it is not the first-line intervention when there are no accelerations or fetal movement during a nonstress test. The nurse should try other methods to stimulate fetal movement before resorting to walking.
Choice B rationale
Performing vibroacoustic stimulation is the correct action. Vibroacoustic stimulation involves using a device to produce a sound and vibration near the maternal abdomen to stimulate fetal movement and heart rate accelerations. This method is non-invasive and can help determine fetal well-being by eliciting a response from the fetus.
Choice C rationale
Immediately reporting the situation to the provider and preparing the client for induction of labor is premature. The absence of accelerations or fetal movement during a nonstress test does not immediately indicate a need for induction of labor. Other less invasive interventions, such as vibroacoustic stimulation, should be attempted first.
Choice D rationale
Repositioning the client into a supine position is not recommended. The supine position can lead to supine hypotensive syndrome, which can decrease blood flow to the fetus. The nurse should avoid placing the client in a supine position and instead try other methods to stimulate fetal movement.
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.