During labor, which of the following is a characteristic of early decelerations in fetal heart rate?

Gradual decrease in FHR that mirrors uterine contractions

Abrupt decrease in FHR with rapid recovery

Increase in FHR of at least 15 beats lasting at least 15 seconds

Decrease in FHR after the peak of uterine contractions

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Gradual decrease in FHR that mirrors uterine contractions. Early decelerations are caused by fetal head compression during contractions, leading to a gradual, uniform decrease in FHR that mirrors the contraction. This is a benign finding and does not require intervention.

B. Abrupt decrease in FHR with rapid recovery. This describes variable decelerations, which are caused by umbilical cord compression and require intervention.

C. Increase in FHR of at least 15 beats lasting at least 15 seconds. This describes accelerations, which are a reassuring sign of fetal well-being.

D. Decrease in FHR after the peak of uterine contractions. This describes late decelerations, which are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency and require intervention.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Maternal bradycardia: Late decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency, not maternal heart rate changes.

B. Fetal head compression: Fetal head compression causes early decelerations, which are benign and mirror contractions. Late decelerations occur after contractions and indicate a more serious issue.

C. Uteroplacental insufficiency: Late decelerations occur due to decreased oxygenation from poor placental perfusion (uteroplacental insufficiency). Common causes include maternal hypotension, post-term pregnancy, uterine tachysystole, and placental abruption.

D. Umbilical cord compression: Umbilical cord compression causes variable decelerations, not late decelerations.

A. This test assesses fetal lung maturity. B. This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. C. It assesses various markers of fetal well-being. D. It is a screening test for spinal defects in the fetus.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. This test assesses fetal lung maturity. Fetal lung maturity is assessed using the lecithin-sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio or phosphatidylglycerol (PG) test, typically performed after 32 weeks of gestation.

B. This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. Rh incompatibility is detected through an indirect Coombs test, not an MSAFP test.

C. It assesses various markers of fetal well-being. The biophysical profile (BPP) and nonstress test (NST) assess fetal well-being, not MSAFP.

D. It is a screening test for spinal defects in the fetus. MSAFP is a screening test for neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida, anencephaly) and chromosomal abnormalities. High levels may indicate neural tube defects, while low levels may suggest Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities.

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During labor, which of the following is a characteristic of early decelerations in fetal heart rate?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has an external fetal monitor. The nurse observes late decelerations on the monitor strip and interprets them as indicating which of the following?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation. The nurse provides which of the following explanations about this test to the client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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