A pregnant woman's biophysical profile score is 8. She asks the nurse to explain the results. The nurse's best response is:

Choice A reason: Variability refers to the fluctuations in the FHR that are irregular in amplitude and frequency. It reflects the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems of the fetus. A normal variability is between 6 and 10 beats/min, which indicates a healthy and well-oxygenated fetus.

Choice B reason: Late decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of a contraction and return to the baseline after the contraction ends. They are caused by uteroplacental insufficiency, which means that the placenta is not delivering enough oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. Mild late decelerations are not reassuring and may indicate fetal hypoxia or acidosis².

Choice C reason: FHR should change as a result of fetal activity, such as movement, sleep, or stimulation. A change in the FHR indicates a responsive and well-oxygenated fetus. A lack of change in the FHR may indicate fetal distress or compromise.

Choice D reason: The average baseline rate is the mean FHR rounded to increments of 5 beats/min during a 10-minute window, excluding periods of marked variability, accelerations, or decelerations. A normal baseline rate is between 110 and 160 beats/min. A baseline rate between 100 and 140 beats/min is not necessarily abnormal, but it may indicate fetal bradycardia (slow heart rate) or tachycardia (fast heart rate), depending on the gestational age and other factors.

Choice A reason: Pointing out that inappropriate sexual behavior caused the infection is not helpful, as it may make the woman feel guilty, ashamed, or defensive. The nurse should avoid blaming or judging the woman and focus on providing education and support.

Choice B reason:Positioning the patient in asemi-Fowler position(head of the bed elevated 30–45 degrees) helps promote drainage of pelvic exudate and reduces the risk of abscess formation or further spread of infection. This is a key nursing intervention for patients withacute pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Choice C reason: Telling her that antibiotics need to be taken until pelvic pain is relieved is incorrect, as it may lead to incomplete treatment and recurrence of the infection. The nurse should instruct the woman to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, regardless of the symptoms.

Choice D reason:While infertility is apotential complicationof PID, it is not a guaranteed outcome. The nurse should provideaccurate informationabout risks but avoid causing unnecessary alarm. The focus should be onprompt treatment and prevention of complications.