A nurse is caring for a client in the first stage of labor who is undergoing external fetal monitoring and receiving IV fluids. The nurse observes variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate on the monitor strip.
Which of the following is the correct interpretation of this finding
Variable decelerations are related to fetal head compression.
Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression.
Variable decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency.
Variable decelerations are a result of the administration of narcotic analgesics.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale
Variable decelerations are not related to fetal head compression. Fetal head compression typically results in early decelerations, not variable ones.
Choice B rationale
Variable decelerations are indeed due to umbilical cord compression. They are quick decreases in fetal heart rate that vary with uterine contractions. This can be a sign that the baby’s blood flow is reduced if variable decelerations happen over and over.
Choice C rationale
Uteroplacental insufficiency typically results in late decelerations, not variable ones. Late decelerations are a sign of fetal hypoxia and are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency.
Choice D rationale
While certain medications can affect the fetal heart rate, variable decelerations are not typically a result of the administration of narcotic analgesics.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A patient at 28 weeks of gestation receiving terbutaline may report fine tremors. This is a common side effect of terbutaline, which is a medication used to relax the muscles in the uterus to prevent premature labor. However, while it may be uncomfortable for the patient, it is not typically a cause for immediate concern.
Choice B rationale
A tearful patient at 32 weeks of gestation experiencing irregular, frequent contractions could be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, which are often referred to as “false labor.”. These contractions are usually irregular and do not increase in intensity or frequency. While they can be uncomfortable, they are a normal part of pregnancy and do not typically require immediate medical attention. Choice C rationale
A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia reporting epigastric pain and an unresolved headache should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms could indicate severe preeclampsia, which can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Epigastric pain may suggest liver involvement, and a persistent headache could be a sign of neurological involvement, both of which require immediate medical attention.
Choice D rationale
A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia having 2+ proteinuria and 2+ patellar reflexes is expected. Proteinuria is a common symptom of preeclampsia, and hyperreflexia can be a sign of increased neurological excitability, a common feature of preeclampsia. However, these findings alone do not typically require immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Repaglinide is an oral medication used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is not typically used in pregnant women, especially those unable to control their gestational diabetes with diet and exercise.
Choice B rationale
Insulin is the most common medication used to control blood sugar levels in pregnant women, especially those unable to control their gestational diabetes with diet and exercise.
Choice C rationale
Glipizide is an oral medication used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is not typically used in pregnant women, especially those unable to control their gestational diabetes with diet and exercise.
Choice D rationale
Acarbose is an oral medication used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2
diabetes. It is not typically used in pregnant women, especially those unable to control their gestational diabetes with diet and exercise.
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