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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Eating five small meals daily can help reduce heartburn in pregnancy by preventing overeating and reducing the pressure on the stomach from the growing uterus. It can also help maintain a steady blood glucose level and prevent nausea and vomiting.
Choice B reason: Lying down after each meal can worsen heartburn in pregnancy by allowing the stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. It can also cause breathing difficulties and increase the risk of aspiration. The woman should avoid lying down for at least two hours after eating and elevate her head and chest when sleeping.
Choice C reason: Reducing the amount of fiber she consumes can cause constipation and hemorrhoids in pregnancy, which can increase the discomfort and pain. Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. The woman should consume at least 25 grams of fiber per day from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts.
Choice D reason: Substituting other calcium sources for milk in her diet can deprive the woman and the baby of essential nutrients, such as protein, vitamin D, and riboflavin. Milk is not a common cause of heartburn in pregnancy, unless the woman is lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products. The woman should consume at least three servings of dairy products per day or take calcium supplements as prescribed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not the main reason, as the use of contraceptives for an extended time does not necessarily affect the fertility of a woman. Most contraceptives are reversible and do not cause permanent damage to the reproductive system. However, some contraceptives may take longer to wear off than others, and some may have side effects that can interfere with ovulation or implantation.
Choice B reason: This is the main reason, as the aging process can affect the ovaries and the quality and quantity of the eggs. As a woman ages, her ovarian reserve (the number of eggs in the ovaries) declines, and the eggs become more prone to chromosomal abnormalities. This can reduce the chances of conception and increase the risk of miscarriage or birth defects.
Choice C reason: This is not the main reason, as prepregnancy medical attention is not a prerequisite for achieving pregnancy. However, prepregnancy medical attention can be beneficial for a woman who is older than 35 years, as it can help identify and manage any existing or potential health problems that may affect the pregnancy, such as diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders.
Choice D reason: This is not the main reason, as personal risk behaviors are not specific to a woman who is older than 35 years. Personal risk behaviors are factors that can negatively affect the fertility of any woman, regardless of age. Some examples of personal risk behaviors are smoking, drinking, using drugs, having multiple sexual partners, or having sexually transmitted infections.
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