A nurse is caring for a client who is in the first stage of labor, undergoing external fetal monitoring, and receiving IV fluid. The nurse observes variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate on the monitor strip. Which of the following is a correct interpretation of this finding?

Variable decelerations are a result of the administration of IV narcotic analgesics.

Variable decelerations are related to fetal head compression.

Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression.

Variable decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A)   Variable decelerations are a result of the administration of IV narcotic analgesics: IV narcotic analgesics can cause changes in the fetal heart rate, but they are more commonly associated with early decelerations, not variable decelerations.

B)   Variable decelerations are related to fetal head compression: Fetal head compression is associated with early decelerations, not variable decelerations.
C)   Variable decelerations are due to umbilical cord compression: This is the correct answer.

Variable decelerations occur due to compression of the umbilical cord during contractions, leading to transient decreases in fetal blood flow and oxygenation.
D) Variable decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency: Uteroplacental insufficiency is associated with late decelerations, not variable decelerations.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A: Fetal lung maturity is not assessed through maternal serum alphafetoprotein testing. It is usually evaluated through tests such as amniocentesis or specialized ultrasound examinations closer to the third trimester.
Choice B: The maternal serum alphafetoprotein test specifically screens for certain birth defects and genetic conditions in the fetus, rather than general signs of physical and physiological
wellbeing.

Choice C: The maternal serum alphafetoprotein test is not used to identify Rh incompatibility. Rh incompatibility is determined through blood tests that assess the Rh factor of the mother's blood and the Rh status of the baby.
Choice D: The maternal serum alphafetoprotein test is a blood screening test that can identify neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) and chromosomal abnormalities (such as Down syndrome) in the fetus. The test measures the levels of alphafetoprotein in the mother's blood, and abnormal levels may indicate the need for further diagnostic testing.

A. A client who is at 38 weeks of gestation and reports a cough and fever. B. A client who has missed a period and reports vaginal spotting. C. A client who is at 14 weeks of gestation and reports nausea and vomiting. D. A client who is at 28 weeks of gestation and reports painless vaginal bleeding.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A.A client at 38 weeks of gestation with a cough and fever may have an infection, which is concerning, but it is not immediately life-threatening. The nurse should assess this client soon, but it is not the highest priority.

B.A client who has missed a period and reports vaginal spotting could be experiencing an early pregnancy complication, such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. This situation requires attention, but it is not as urgent as painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester.

C.A client at 14 weeks of gestation with nausea and vomiting is likely experiencing common pregnancy symptoms. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable and require management, they are not typically urgent.

D.A client at 28 weeks of gestation with painless vaginal bleeding could be experiencing placenta previa or another serious condition that poses an immediate risk to both the mother and the fetus. This situation requires urgent assessment and intervention.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is in the first stage of labor, undergoing external fetal monitoring, and receiving IV fluid. The nurse observes variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate on the monitor strip. Which of the following is a correct interpretation of this finding?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for a maternal serum alphafetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation. The nurse provides which of the following explanations about this test to the client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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