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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Contractions that last 45 seconds each with a 3-minute rest between contractions are less common. Typically, contractions last around 60 seconds during active labor.
B. Contractions that last for 60 seconds each with a 3-min rest between contractions is the expected pattern.
During active labor, contractions are commonly around 60 seconds in duration, and they occur approximately every 4-5 minutes.
C. Contractions that last for 60 seconds each with a 4-min rest between contractions are not consistent with the usual pattern of contractions in active labor. A 4-minute rest between contractions would be an extended interval.
D. A contraction that lasts for 4 minutes followed by a period of relaxation is not typical and may indicate a problem. Normal contractions usually last around 60 seconds or less.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. After notifying the provider, the nurse should massage the client’s fundus. This action helps to contract the uterus and reduce bleeding, which is crucial in managing hypovolemic shock due to postpartum hemorrhage.
B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: This action is important for monitoring urine output, which is a key indicator of renal perfusion and overall fluid status. However, it is not the immediate priority when managing hypovolemic shock due to postpartum hemorrhage.
C. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min: Providing oxygen is crucial to ensure adequate tissue oxygenation, especially in a shock state. While important, it comes after addressing the source of bleeding, which is the primary cause of the hypovolemic shock.
D. Elevate the client’s right hip: This action helps to prevent uterine displacement and improve venous return, which can be beneficial. However, it is not the first step in managing hypovolemic shock due to postpartum hemorrhage.
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