What is the most common cause of variable decelerations in fetal heart rate?
Uteroplacental insufficiency
Umbilical cord compression
Maternal hypotension
Fetal head compression
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. Umbilical cord compression. Variable decelerations are the most common type of fetal deceleration and they are caused by compression of the umbilical cord. They vary in shape, duration, and intensity and may not have a constant relationship with uterine contractions.
Choice A is wrong because uteroplacental insufficiency is the cause of late decelerations, not variable decelerations. Uteroplacental insufficiency is a decrease in the blood flow to the placenta that reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients transferred to the fetus.
Choice C is wrong because maternal hypotension is one of the possible causes of late decelerations, not variable decelerations. Maternal hypotension can reduce the uteroplacental blood flow and cause fetal hypoxia.
Choice D is wrong because fetal head compression is the cause of early decelerations, not variable decelerations. Early decelerations are benign and uniform in shape and they occur when the fetal head is pressed against the cervix during a uterine contraction.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Apply pressure to presenting part with hand.
This is because cord prolapse is an emergency situation that requires immediate delivery to save the fetus.Applying pressure to the presenting part with hand can help relieve the compression of the cord and maintain fetal oxygenation until delivery.
Choice A is wrong because stopping oxytocin infusion will not prevent cord compression or fetal hypoxia.Oxytocin may be stopped after applying pressure to the presenting part and notifying the physician.
Choice B is wrong because placing the patient in knee-chest position may not be effective in relieving cord compression.
It may also be uncomfortable and difficult for the patient to maintain.A better position would be Trendelenburg or modified Sims.
Choice D is wrong because administering oxygen via non-rebreather mask is not a priority action.Oxygen may be given after applying pressure to the presenting part and notifying the physician, but it will not improve fetal oxygenation if the cord is compressed.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Stop it completely.This is because oxytocin infusion can cause uterine hyperstimulation, which can worsen the cord compression and compromise fetal oxygenation.Stopping the oxytocin infusion can reduce the frequency and intensity of contractions and relieve pressure on the cord.
Choice A is wrong because increasing the oxytocin infusion rate can increase the risk of cord prolapse and fetal hypoxia.Choice B is wrong because decreasing the oxytocin infusion rate may not be enough to prevent cord compression and fetal distress.Choice D is wrong because maintaining the oxytocin infusion rate can prolong the labor and increase the chance of fetal compromise.
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