A nurse is caring for a client during a nonstress test (NST). At the end of a 30min period of observation, the nurse notes the following findings: The fetal heart rate baseline is 120/min with minimal variability and no accelerations. There are two decelerations of 15 /min in the fetal heart rate during a period of fetal movement, each lasting 20 seconds. Which of the following
interpretations of these findings should the nurse make?

A reactive test

A negative test

A positive test

A nonreactive test

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) A reactive test: A reactive NST requires the presence of specific criteria, including at least two fetal heart rate accelerations of at least 15 beats per minute (bpm) lasting for at least 15
seconds in a 20minute period, along with a baseline heart rate within the normal range (110160 bpm) and moderate variability.
B) A negative test: "Negative" is not a term used to describe NST results.

C) A positive test: "Positive" is not a term used to describe NST results.

D) A nonreactive test: This is the correct interpretation. In a nonreactive NST, the fetal heart rate did not demonstrate the required accelerations within the 30minute observation period. The absence of accelerations can indicate potential fetal compromise, and further evaluation, such as a contraction stress test or biophysical profile, may be necessary to assess the fetus's wellbeing.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A: Variable decelerations on the fetal heart rate monitor tracing are suggestive of umbilical cord compression. These decelerations are often V, U, or Wshaped, and their onset, depth, and duration can vary. They are associated with cord compression, which can reduce blood flow to the fetus during contractions. Other options are as follows:

Choice B: Late decelerations are indicative of uteroplacental insufficiency and are not related to umbilical cord problems.

Choice C: Accelerations are reassuring and suggest a responsive, healthy fetus.

Choice D: Early decelerations are usually benign and result from head compression during contractions, not umbilical cord issues.

A. "Change the client's position to left lateral and observe for resolution of the decelerations." B. "Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask and observe for resolution of the decelerations." C. "Apply a fetal scalp electrode and observe for resolution of the decelerations." D. "Increase the rate of the IV infusion and observe for resolution of the decelerations."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A: Late decelerations in the fetal heart rate are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, and one of the first interventions is to improve uterine blood flow by changing the client's position. Placing the client in a left lateral position can help relieve pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the placenta and the baby.

Choice B: Administering oxygen is a correct intervention for late decelerations, but it should follow the position change. Oxygen administration helps increase oxygen levels in the maternal blood, which can improve fetal oxygenation.

Choice C: Applying a fetal scalp electrode can provide continuous fetal heart rate monitoring, but it does not address the immediate concern of late decelerations. Position change and oxygen administration should be the priority.

Choice D: Increasing the rate of the IV infusion might not have an immediate effect on resolving late decelerations. Position change and oxygen administration should be the initial interventions.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is observing the electronic fetal heart rate monitor tracing for a client who is at 40 weeks of gestation and is in labor. The nurse should suspect a problem with the umbilical cord when he observes which of the following patterns?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and notes late decelerations in the FHR. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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A nurse is providing teaching about Kegel exercises to a group of clients who are in the third trimester of pregnancy. Which of the following statements by a client indicates understanding of the teaching?

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is at 30 weeks of gestation and is to have a nonstress test (NST). Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

A nurse is caring for a client who is to undergo an amniotomy. Which of the following is the priority nursing action immediately following this procedure?

A nurse is admitting a client who is at 38 weeks of gestation and is in the active phase of the first stage of labor. Which of the following assessment findings is the first priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

A nurse in a prenatal clinic is teaching a client who has a new prescription for dinoprostone (Cervidil) gel. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

A nurse is caring for a client who is at 6 weeks of gestation with her first pregnancy and asks the nurse when she can expect to experience quickening. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

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