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 B

Explanation

This is because cramping and vaginal bleeding after an amniocentesis may indicate a possible miscarriage or placental abruption, which can compromise fetal oxygenation and perfusion.

Monitoring fetal heart rate can help detect signs of fetal distress and guide further interventions.

Choice A is wrong because administering Rho(D) immune globulin is indicated for Rh-negative mothers who undergo amniocentesis to prevent isoimmunization, but it is not a priority action in this scenario.

Choice C is wrong because assessing maternal vital signs is important to monitor for signs of infection, hemorrhage, or shock, but it is not as urgent as monitoring fetal well-being.

Choice D is wrong because obtaining an order for an ultrasound exam can help confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the placenta and amniotic fluid, but it is not the first action to take in this situation.

A. An amniotic fluid index (AFI) of 8 cm B. An amniotic fluid index (AFI) of 4 cm C. A single vertical pocket of amniotic fluid measuring 3 cm D. A single vertical pocket of amniotic fluid measuring 5 cm

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

An amniotic fluid index (AFI) of 4 cm indicates oligohydramnios, which is a low amount of amniotic fluid.

Oligohydramnios can be caused by various factors, such as uteroplacental insufficiency, rupture of membranes, postterm pregnancy, fetal anomalies, or certain medications.

Oligohydramnios can lead to complications such as fetal death, intrauterine growth restriction, limb contractures, or delayed lung maturation.

Choice A is wrong because an AFI of 8 cm is within the normal range for amniotic fluid volume.

Choice C is wrong because a single vertical pocket of amniotic fluid measuring 3 cm is also within the normal range for amniotic fluid volume.

Choice D is wrong because a single vertical pocket of amniotic fluid measuring 5 cm is also within the normal range for amniotic fluid volume.

Normal ranges for AFI and single vertical pocket are > 5 to < 24 cm and ≥ 2 to < 8 cm, respectively.

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

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a patient who had an amniocentesis performed at 16 weeks gestation and reports cramping and vaginal bleeding 24 hours later which action should be taken first?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

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?

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

What does this finding indicate?