What is the cause of early decelerations in the fetal heart rate (FHR) of a laboring woman?

Cerebral compression

Cord compression

Uteroplacental insufficiency

Spontaneous rupture of membranes

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason: Cerebral compression is the cause of early decelerations, as it reflects the fetal head compression during uterine contractions. Early decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin and end with the onset and end of a contraction, respectively. They are symmetrical and mirror the shape of the contraction. Early decelerations are normal and benign, as they indicate that the fetus is responding to the increased intracranial pressure and maintaining adequate oxygenation.

Choice B reason: Cord compression is not the cause of early decelerations but of variable decelerations. Variable decelerations are abrupt and irregular decreases in the FHR that vary in onset, duration, and depth. They are usually caused by the umbilical cord being compressed or occluded by the fetal body, the maternal pelvis, or the uterine contractions. Variable decelerations can indicate fetal distress or hypoxia, especially if they are severe, frequent, or prolonged.

Choice C reason: Uteroplacental insufficiency is not the cause of early decelerations, but of late decelerations. Late decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of a contraction and return to the baseline after the contraction ends. They are symmetrical and have a gradual onset and recovery. They are usually caused by the reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the placenta and the fetus due to maternal or fetal factors. Late decelerations can indicate fetal distress or hypoxia, and require immediate intervention.

Choice D reason: Spontaneous rupture of membranes is not the cause of early decelerations, but it can be a risk factor for cord compression and variable decelerations. Spontaneous rupture of membranes is the breaking of the amniotic sac and the release of the amniotic fluid, which usually occurs during labor or shortly before it. Spontaneous rupture of membranes can cause the umbilical cord to prolapse or slip into the vagina, where it can be compressed or kinked by the fetal head or the contractions.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A: February 6-7 is incorrect. This is too late for the woman's fertile period, which occurs around the time of ovulation. Ovulation usually happens about 14 days before the next period starts, which would be around January 22 for a 28-day cycle¹.

Choice B:In a 28-day menstrual cycle, ovulation typically occurs around day 14 (counting from the first day of the last menstrual period). Since the first day of the last period is January 8, day 14 falls on January 22. The fertile window consists of the five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation (January 17–22), as sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to 5 days, and the egg remains viable for about 24 hours after ovulation.January 22-23 is the most fertile period, with ovulation occurring around January 22 and the egg remaining viable for fertilization on January 23.

Choice C: January 30-31 is incorrect. This is after the woman's fertile period, which ends about a day after ovulation. Ovulation usually happens about 14 days before the next period starts, which would be around January 22 for a 28-day cycle.

Choice D: January 14-15 corresponds to cycle days 7-8, which is too early for ovulation in a typical 28-day cycle. Ovulation generally occurs around day 14 (January 22). The follicular phase (the first half of the cycle) is when the follicles in the ovary mature, and estrogen levels rise to trigger ovulation. At this point (January 14-15), the egg is not yet released, and the uterus is still preparing for ovulation, making conception unlikely.

A. she will be unable to conceive in the future. B. a D&C will be performed to remove the products of conception. C. bed rest and analgesics are the recommended treatment. D. hemorrhage is the major concern.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: She will not be unable to conceive in the future, as ectopic pregnancy does not necessarily affect her fertility. However, she may have a higher risk of having another ectopic pregnancy or infertility if the fallopian tube is damaged or removed.

Choice B reason: A D&C (dilation and curettage) will not be performed to remove the products of conception, as this procedure is used to empty the uterus, not the fallopian tube. The treatment for ectopic pregnancy may include medication, surgery, or expectant management, depending on the location, size, and viability of the pregnancy.

Choice C reason: Bed rest and analgesics are not the recommended treatment for ectopic pregnancy, as they do not address the underlying cause or prevent complications. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that requires prompt intervention to prevent rupture, bleeding, and shock.

Choice D reason: Hemorrhage is the major concern for ectopic pregnancy, as the pregnancy can rupture the fallopian tube and cause severe bleeding into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to hypovolemic shock, which is a life-threatening condition.

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What is the cause of early decelerations in the fetal heart rate (FHR) of a laboring woman?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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