During a CST, the nurse observes variable decelerations of the FHR with or without contractions.

What does this finding indicate?

Cord compression

Fetal hypoxia

Normal placental function

Adequate fetal oxygenation

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

This finding indicates that the umbilical cord is being compressed, which can reduce the blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus.

Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the fetal heart rate (FHR) that vary in shape, duration, and degree of fall below the baseline.

They are seen as W- or U-shaped waves on the monitor.

Choice B is wrong because fetal hypoxia is not indicated by variable decelerations, but by late decelerations, which are gradual decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of the contraction and return to baseline after the contraction ends.

Late decelerations are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, which means that the placenta is not delivering enough oxygen to the fetus.

Choice C is wrong because normal placental function is not indicated by variable decelerations, but by reassuring FHR patterns, such as moderate variability (6 to 25 beats per minute) and accelerations (increases in the FHR above the baseline).

Normal placental function ensures adequate fetal oxygenation and well-being.

Choice D is wrong because adequate fetal oxygenation is not indicated by variable decelerations, but by reassuring FHR patterns, such as moderate variability and accelerations.

Adequate fetal oxygenation means that the fetus is not experiencing hypoxia or distress.

Normal ranges for FHR are 110 to 160 beats per minute at term and 120 to 160 beats per minute before term.

Normal ranges for uterine contractions are 2 to 5 contractions in 10 minutes, lasting less than 90 seconds each.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

. The client’s cervix is dilated.

This indicates that the client may be in preterm labor, which is a contraindication for amniocentesis.

Amniocentesis is a procedure that involves inserting a needle into the amniotic sac to obtain a sample of amniotic fluid for genetic testing or other purposes.

It is usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation.

Choice A is wrong because the client’s bladder should be full for amniocentesis.

This helps to push the uterus upward and away from the bladder, reducing the risk of injury and making it easier to visualize the fetus and the needle.

Choice B is wrong because the client’s uterus should be above the symphysis pubis at 16 weeks of gestation.

This is a normal finding and does not affect the procedure.

Choice D is wrong because the client’s fundal height should measure around 16 cm at 16 weeks of gestation.

A fundal height of 20 cm may indicate a large for gestational age fetus, multiple gestation, or polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid), but these are not absolute contraindications for amniocentesis.

However, they may require further evaluation and adjustment of the technique.

A. Late decelerations of the FHR with less than 50% of contractions. B. Late decelerations of the FHR with at least 50% of contractions. C. No late decelerations of the FHR during contractions. D. Variable decelerations of the FHR with or without contractions.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

An equivocal CST indicates late decelerations of the FHR with less than 50% of contractions.

This means that the fetus may have some degree of hypoxia or distress, but not enough to warrant immediate delivery.

An equivocal CST may also result from hyperstimulation of the uterus, which can cause excessive contractions and reduce blood flow to the placenta.

Choice B is wrong because late decelerations of the FHR with at least 50% of contractions is a positive CST, which indicates a high risk of fetal death due to hypoxia and is a contraindication to labor.

Choice C is wrong because no late decelerations of the FHR during contractions is a negative CST, which indicates a good fetal wellbeing and tolerance of labor.

Choice D is wrong because variable decelerations of the FHR with or without contractions are not related to uterine activity and may indicate cord compression or other fetal problems.

Variable decelerations are not used to interpret CST results.

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During a CST, the nurse observes variable decelerations of the FHR with or without contractions. What does this finding indicate?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for an amniocentesis at 16 weeks gestation. Which of the following should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is reviewing the results of a Contraction Stress Test (CST) with a pregnant client. What does an equivocal CST indicate?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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During a CST, the nurse observes variable decelerations of the FHR with or without contractions.

What does this finding indicate?