A nurse is caring for a laboring patient with an external fetal monitor. The nurse notices late decelerations on the monitor strip.
What does the nurse interpret this as indicating?
Maternal bradycardia
Uteroplacental insufficiency
Umbilical cord compression
Fetal head compression
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Maternal bradycardia refers to a slower than normal heart rate in the mother. While it can affect the baby’s health, it doesn’t cause late decelerations on the fetal monitor.
Choice B rationale
Late decelerations are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency, which is a decrease in the blood flow to the placenta that reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients transferred to the fetus. This is why the nurse would interpret late decelerations as indicating uteroplacental insufficiency.
Choice C rationale
Umbilical cord compression can cause variable decelerations, not late decelerations. Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the fetal heart rate, typically associated with contractions, and they vary in onset, depth, and duration.
Choice D rationale
Fetal head compression typically causes early decelerations, not late decelerations. Early decelerations are a mirror image of the contraction and are generally not a concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cervical dilation is a key sign that labor has begun. During labor, the cervix dilates to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. This is a physical change that can be measured during a pelvic exam.
Choice B rationale
Pain above the umbilicus is not typically a sign of labor. During labor, contractions are usually felt as a tightening or cramping in the lower abdomen or back.
Choice C rationale
Brownish vaginal discharge can occur during pregnancy and is not necessarily a sign of labor. If the discharge is heavy, or accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or cramping, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
The presence of amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault, also known as “water breaking,” can be a sign that labor is imminent. However, it does not confirm that labor has begun, as it can occur before the onset of contractions and cervical dilation.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Flushing and sweating can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate is a medication used to prevent seizures in women with severe preeclampsia. However, if the levels of magnesium become too high, it can lead to toxicity15.
Choice B rationale
A decreased level of consciousness can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. High levels of magnesium can affect the central nervous system, leading to drowsiness, lethargy, and decreased responsiveness15.
Choice C rationale
Urinary output less than 30 mL/hr can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can affect kidney function, leading to decreased urine output15.
Choice D rationale
Respirations fewer than 12/min can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. High levels of magnesium can depress the respiratory system, leading to slow or shallow breathing15.
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