A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is in active labor.
The nurse notes variable decelerations of the FHR. The nurse should identify which of the following as a cause of variable decelerations?
Umbilical cord compression.
Maternal fever.
Fetal head compression.
Polyhydramnios.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Variable decelerations are characterized by an abrupt decrease in the fetal heart rate, often V, W, or U-shaped, and are primarily caused by umbilical cord compression. This compression reduces blood flow and oxygen transfer to the fetus, leading to a transient hypoxic event and subsequent FHR deceleration.
Choice B rationale
Maternal fever typically causes fetal tachycardia, an elevated baseline fetal heart rate (above 160 beats per minute), due to increased fetal metabolic demands and a direct effect of elevated maternal temperature on fetal physiology. It does not directly cause variable decelerations.
Choice C rationale
Fetal head compression typically causes early decelerations, which are symmetrical, gradual decreases in FHR that mirror uterine contractions. This occurs due to increased intracranial pressure stimulating the vagus nerve, leading to a transient slowing of the heart rate.
Choice D rationale
Polyhydramnios, an excessive amount of amniotic fluid, is generally associated with conditions like maternal diabetes or fetal anomalies. While it can alter uterine distension, it is not a direct or primary cause of variable decelerations, which are specifically linked to cord compression.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) are commonly the first-line treatment for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). They work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are inflammatory mediators responsible for pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints.
Choice B rationale
Antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections. JIA is an autoimmune inflammatory condition, not caused by fungal pathogens. Therefore, antifungal medications have no therapeutic role in the management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Choice C rationale
Antibiotics are specifically designed to combat bacterial infections. JIA is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, primarily joints. It is not caused by bacteria, so antibiotics are ineffective for its treatment.
Choice D rationale
Antiviral medications are used to treat viral infections. JIA is not caused by viral pathogens but rather by an autoimmune dysfunction. Therefore, antiviral medications do not play a role in the primary management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Increased dietary fiber (cellulose) adds bulk to the stool, promoting peristalsis and facilitating bowel movements. Adequate fluid intake is crucial for softening stool and preventing dehydration, which can exacerbate constipation. Together, these interventions physically aid in the formation and passage of softer, more regular stools, addressing the root cause of pregnancy-related constipation.
Choice B rationale
Regular use of a laxative, especially stimulant laxatives, is generally discouraged during pregnancy due to potential for dependency, electrolyte imbalances, and uterine contractions. While some bulk-forming laxatives might be considered, the primary recommendation focuses on dietary and lifestyle modifications as a safer and more physiological approach to managing constipation.
Choice C rationale
Maintenance of good posture can influence comfort and spinal alignment, but it does not directly address the physiological mechanisms contributing to constipation, such as slowed gastrointestinal motility or insufficient dietary fiber and fluid. While beneficial for overall well-being, it is not a primary intervention for alleviating constipation.
Choice D rationale
Regular use of glycerin suppositories acts as a local irritant and osmotic agent to soften and stimulate the rectum for defecation. While they can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying causes of constipation in pregnancy and their regular use can lead to dependency, hindering the body's natural bowel function.
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