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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: After an amniotomy (artificial rupture of membranes), the priority action by the nurse is to assess the fetal heart rate. Amniotomy can lead to changes in fetal heart rate patterns, and the nurse needs to ensure that the baby's wellbeing is not compromised after the procedure.
Choice B: Providing clean, dry underpads is important for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness after the procedure but is not the priority action. The fetal heart rate assessment takes precedence.
Choice C: Assessing the odor of the amniotic fluid is essential to identify any signs of infection, but it is not the priority action immediately following the amniotomy. Fetal wellbeing is the priority.
Choice D: Monitoring the client's temperature is important for identifying any signs of infection, but it is not the priority action. Assessing the fetal heart rate is more critical at this time.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D: Leopold maneuvers are used to determine the fetal position and presentation by palpating the abdomen. ROA stands for Right Occiput Anterior, which means the baby's head is presenting and facing towards the mother's right side (Occiput) and positioned anteriorly (front of the pelvis).
This position is a common and favorable presentation for a vaginal delivery.
Choice A: Shoulder presentation is when the baby is presenting with the shoulder rather than the head. It is an abnormal presentation and requires a cesarean delivery.
Choice B: Mentum presentation is a type of face presentation, where the baby's chin (mentum) is presenting instead of the head. It is also an abnormal presentation and usually requires a cesarean delivery.
Choice C: Breech presentation is when the baby's buttocks or feet are presenting first instead of the head. It is another abnormal presentation that may require a cesarean delivery or careful vaginal delivery with a skilled healthcare provider.
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