A nurse is caring for a client who is in the first stage of labor, undergoing external fetal monitoring, and receiving IV fluid. The nurse observes variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate on the monitor strip. Which of the following is a correct interpretation of this finding?
Variable decelerations are a result of the administration of IV narcotic analgesics.
Variable decelerations are related to fetal head compression.
Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression.
Variable decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Variable decelerations are a result of the administration of IV narcotic analgesics: IV narcotic analgesics can cause changes in the fetal heart rate, but they are more commonly associated with early decelerations, not variable decelerations.
B) Variable decelerations are related to fetal head compression: Fetal head compression is associated with early decelerations, not variable decelerations.
C) Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression: This is the correct answer.
Variable decelerations occur due to compression of the umbilical cord during contractions, leading to transient decreases in fetal blood flow and oxygenation.
D) Variable decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency: Uteroplacental insufficiency is associated with late decelerations, not variable decelerations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "This always happens by the end of the first trimester of pregnancy.": Quickening typically occurs later in pregnancy, not by the end of the first trimester.
B. "This will occur during the last trimester of pregnancy.": Quickening occurs much earlier than the last trimester.
C. "This usually happens between the fourth and fifth months of pregnancy.": Quickening, which is the first perception of fetal movements by the mother, generally occurs between 16 to 20 weeks of gestation.
D. "This will happen once the uterus begins to rise out of the pelvis.": Quickening does not directly correlate with the rising of the uterus out of the pelvis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Immediately report the situation to the client's provider and prepare the client for induction of labor.This option is premature. The absence of fetal movement for 15 minutes during a nonstress test does not immediately indicate a need for induction of labor. Other less invasive interventions should be attempted first to stimulate fetal movement.
B. Encourage the client to walk around without the monitoring unit for 10 min, then resume monitoring. While movement can sometimes stimulate fetal activity, removing the monitoring unit is not advisable during a nonstress test. Continuous monitoring is essential to accurately assess the fetal heart rate and movement.
C. Turn the client onto her left side.This position can improve uteroplacental blood flow and may help stimulate fetal movement. However, it is not the most effective initial intervention compared to offering a snack, which can provide a quicker response.
D. Offer the client a snack of orange juice and crackers.This is the correct intervention. The sugar in the orange juice can provide a quick source of energy to the fetus, potentially stimulating movement. Additionally, the act of eating can sometimes prompt fetal activity.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.