A nurse is reviewing the electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) tracing of a client in active labor.
The nurse notes that the baseline FHR is 150 bpm, with moderate variability and no decelerations.
The nurse also observes that the FHR increases by 25 bpm for 15 seconds, four times in a 20-minute period.
What term is used to describe these FHR changes?
Accelerations
Early decelerations
Late decelerations
Variable decelerations
The Correct Answer is A
Accelerations. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) terminology, accelerations are defined as transient increases in the FHR of at least 15 bpm above the baseline for at least 15 seconds. Accelerations are a reassuring sign of fetal well-being and oxygenation.
Early decelerations are decreases in the FHR that coincide with the onset and end of a uterine contraction. They are caused by fetal head compression and are usually benign.
Late decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of a uterine contraction and do not return to baseline until after the contraction ends. They are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency and are a sign of fetal hypoxia.
Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the FHR that vary in timing.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This means that the fetal heart rate (FHR) increases by at least 15 beats per minute (bpm) for at least 15 seconds, twice in a 10-minute period.This indicates that the baby is healthy and getting enough oxygen.
Nonreactive.
This means that the FHR does not show the expected accelerations in response to movement.This may indicate that the baby is not well or needs further testing.
Indeterminate.
This means that the FHR shows some accelerations, but not enough to be considered reactive.This may indicate that the baby is asleep or needs more time to show reactivity.
Abnormal.
This means that the FHR shows decelerations, which are drops in the heart rate below the baseline.This may indicate that the baby is in distress or has a problem with the umbilical cord or placenta.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Accelerations.According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) terminology, accelerations are defined as transient increases in the FHR of at least 15 bpm above the baseline for at least 15 seconds.Accelerations are a reassuring sign of fetal well-being and oxygenation.
Early decelerations are decreases in the FHR that coincide with the onset and end of a uterine contraction.They are caused by fetal head compression and are usually benign.
Late decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of a uterine contraction and do not return to baseline until after the contraction ends.They are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency and are a sign of fetal hypoxia.
Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the FHR that vary in timing.
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