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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. The client has a history of placenta previa.
Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers all or part of the cervix, blocking the baby’s exit from the uterus.
This can cause severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery and increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Therefore, the nurse should report this condition to the provider before performing an amniocentesis.
Choice A is wrong because having Rh-negative blood type is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need an injection of Rh immunoglobulin after the procedure to prevent Rh sensitization.
Choice B is wrong because having a history of preterm labor is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need to be monitored closely for signs of preterm labor after the procedure.
Choice C is wrong because having a history of gestational diabetes is not a contraindication for amniocentesis.
However, the client may need to have their blood glucose levels checked before and after the procedure.
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure that involves removing and testing a small sample of amniotic fluid from the uterus for genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome or Patau syndrome.
It can also be used to diagnose fetal infections, treat excess amniotic fluid, or test fetal lung maturity
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.
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