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?
Umbilical cord compression
Uteroplacental insufficiency
Fetal head compression
Material bradycardia
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is B. Uteroplacental insufficiency.
A. Umbilical cord compression is more commonly associated with variable decelerations, not late decelerations. Variable decelerations are characterized by abrupt decreases and increases in the fetal heart rate.
B. Late decelerations are indicative of uteroplacental insufficiency.
Uteroplacental insufficiency refers to a decrease in blood flow and oxygen supply from the mother to the fetus. Late decelerations occur after the peak of the contraction and may suggest inadequate oxygenation to the fetus.

C. Fetal head compression is associated with early decelerations, not late decelerations. Early decelerations typically coincide with the contractions and are considered a normal response to head compression during contractions.
D. Maternal bradycardia is not typically associated with late decelerations. Late decelerations are primarily related to issues with oxygenation and blood flow to the fetus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I will receive this medication if my baby is Rh-negative." This statement does not record understanding of the teaching. The purpose of Rho(D) immune globulin is to prevent sensitization of an Rh-negative mother to Rh-positive fetal blood. If the baby is Rh-negative, there is no need for Rho(D) immune globulin.
Choice B Reason:
"I will receive this medication when I am in labor." This statement does not record understanding of the teaching. Rho(D) immune globulin is typically given around 28 weeks of pregnancy and possibly after events that could lead to mixing of maternal and fetal blood, not specifically during labor.
Choice C Reason:
"I will need a second dose of this medication when my baby is 6 weeks old." This statement does not record understanding of the teaching. The administration of Rho(D) immune globulin is generally based on events during pregnancy and delivery, and a second dose is not typically given postpartum unless the baby is Rh-positive.
Choice D Reason:
"I will need this medication if I have an amniocentesis." This statement records understanding of the teaching. Rho(D) immune globulin is given to Rh-negative women during pregnancy and certain other situations to prevent the development of Rh incompatibility with a Rh-positive baby. If the mother undergoes procedures such as amniocentesis or experiences events that could lead to mixing of maternal and fetal blood, Rho(D) immune globulin is administered.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D. Prolonged labor
A. Umbilical cord prolapse is more commonly associated with breech presentations or other abnormal fetal positions. It is not a typical complication of occipital brow presentation.
B. Precipitous labor refers to an unusually rapid labor, and it is not a typical complication associated with occipital brow presentation. Prolonged labor is more likely.
C. Hypertonic uterine dysfunction involves excessive uterine contractions, and it is not specifically associated with occipital brow presentation. It is more commonly associated with other factors, such as maternal anxiety or use of oxytocin.
D. Prolonged labor is a complication that can be associated with occipital brow presentation.
Occipital brow presentation involves the fetal head being partially extended, and it can lead to difficulties in descending through the birth canal. This may result in a prolonged labor process.

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