A placenta previa in which the placental edge just reaches the internal os is more commonly known as:

Choice A reason: This is not the correct action, as the rate is not within normal limits. A normal FHR at 30 weeks of gestation is between 110 and 160 beats/min. A rate of 82 beats/min is considered bradycardia (slow heart rate), which can indicate fetal distress or hypoxia (low oxygen).

Choice B reason: This is not the first action, but it may be necessary after confirming the FHR. The nurse should first rule out the possibility of a maternal-fetal heart rate confusion, which can occur when the maternal heart rate is mistakenly counted as the FHR. This can happen if the Doppler or the electronic fetal monitor is placed too close to the maternal pulse or if the maternal heart rate is unusually slow².

Choice C reason: This is the correct action, as it can help differentiate between the maternal and the fetal heart rate. The nurse should assess the woman's radial pulse at the same time as listening to the FHR and compare the rates and rhythms. If the rates are the same or very close, it is likely that the nurse is hearing the maternal heart rate instead of the FHR. If the rates are different, it is likely that the nurse is hearing the FHR and that the fetus has bradycardia.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct action, as it may cause unnecessary anxiety or distress for the woman. The nurse should not allow the woman to hear the heartbeat until the FHR is confirmed and the cause of the bradycardia is determined. The nurse should also explain the situation to the woman and provide reassurance and support.

Choice A reason: A total placenta previa is when the placenta completely covers the internal os, blocking the baby's exit from the uterus.

Choice B reason: Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta implants in the lower uterine segment and may cover or be near the cervical internal os. When the placental edge just reaches the internal os but does not cover it, it is called a marginal previa.

Choice C reason: A complete placenta previa is when the placenta partially covers the internal os, reducing the space for the baby to pass through.

Choice D reason: "Partial placenta previa" refers to a situation where the placenta partially covers the internal cervical os — meaning some, but not all, of the opening is obstructed by placental tissue.