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?
Fetal head compression
Polyhydramnios
Maternal fever
Umbilical cord compression
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Fetal head compression is incorrect, as this factor can cause early decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Early decelerations are symmetrical decreases in the FHR that mirror the contractions, which indicate fetal head compression and vagal stimulation. Fetal head compression occurs as the fetus descends into the birth canal and does not pose a threat to the fetal well-being.
Choice B reason:
Polyhydramnios is incorrect, as this factor can cause variable or late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, depending on the underlying cause. Polyhydramnios refers to an excessive amount of amniotic fluid, which can result from fetal anomalies, maternal diabetes, multiple gestation, or other conditions. Polyhydramnios can cause umbilical cord prolapse, uterine overdistension, or placental abruption, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus.
Choice C reason:
Maternal fever is incorrect, as this factor can cause late decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Late decelerations are symmetrical decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of the contraction and return to baseline after the contraction ends, which indicate uteroplacental insufficiency. Maternal fever can increase maternal and fetal metabolism and oxygen demand, leading to fetal hypoxia and acidosis.
Choice D reason:
Umbilical cord compression is correct, as this factor can cause variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the FHR that vary in onset, duration, and depth, which indicate umbilical cord compression and reduced blood flow to the fetus. Umbilical cord compression can occur due to cord prolapse, nuchal cord, short cord, or other causes. The nurse should reposition the client, administer oxygen, and prepare for delivery if indicated.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus is incorrect, as this position indicates a higher than expected fundal height for a client who is 12 hr postpartum. The fundus is normally at the level of the umbilicus immediately after birth and then descends about one fingerbreadth per day. A high fundal height can indicate uterine atony, retained placental fragments, or bladder distension.
Choice B reason: One fingerbreadth above the symphysis pubis is incorrect, as this position indicates a lower than expected fundal height for a client who is 12 hr postpartum. The fundus is normally at the level of the umbilicus immediately after birth and then descends about one finger-breadth per day. A low fundal height can indicate uterine inversion, which is a rare but life-threatening complication.
Choice C reason: At the level of the umbilicus is correct, as this position indicates a normal and expected fundal height for a client who is 12 hr postpartum. The fundus is normally at the level of the umbilicus immediately after birth and then descends about one finger-breadth per day. A midline and firm fundus indicates adequate uterine contraction and involution.
Choice D reason: To the right of the umbilicus is incorrect, as this position indicates a deviated fundus for a client who is 12 hr postpartum. The fundus should be midline and not displaced to either side. A deviated fundus can indicate bladder distension, which can interfere with uterine contraction and involution. The nurse should assist the client to empty their bladder and reassess the fundal position.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Bloody show from the vagina is incorrect, as this finding is normal and expected in the second stage of labor. Bloody show refers to the passage of mucus and blood from the cervix, which indicates cervical dilation and effacement.
Choice B reason:
Early decelerations in the FHR is incorrect, as this finding is normal and benign in the second stage of labor. Early decelerations are symmetrical decreases in the FHR that mirror the contractions, which indicate fetal head compression and vagal stimulation. The nurse should continue to monitor the FHR and document the findings.
Choice C reason:
Pelvic pressure with contractions is incorrect, as this finding is normal and expected in the second stage of labor. Pelvic pressure indicates that the fetus is descending into the birth canal and that the client is ready to push.
Choice D reason:
Uterine contraction lasting 2 min is correct, as this finding is abnormal and potentially dangerous in any stage of labor. Uterine contraction lasting 2 min can indicate uterine tetany or hyperstimulation, which can cause fetal distress, placental abruption, uterine rupture, or maternal hemorrhage. The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately and prepare to intervene as ordered.
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