A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has an external fetal monitor. The nurse observes late decelerations on the monitor strip and interprets them as indicating which of the following?
Umbilical cord compression
Uteroplacental insufficiency
Fetal head compression
Material bradycardia
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is B. Uteroplacental insufficiency.
A. Umbilical cord compression is more commonly associated with variable decelerations, not late decelerations. Variable decelerations are characterized by abrupt decreases and increases in the fetal heart rate.
B. Late decelerations are indicative of uteroplacental insufficiency.
Uteroplacental insufficiency refers to a decrease in blood flow and oxygen supply from the mother to the fetus. Late decelerations occur after the peak of the contraction and may suggest inadequate oxygenation to the fetus.
C. Fetal head compression is associated with early decelerations, not late decelerations. Early decelerations typically coincide with the contractions and are considered a normal response to head compression during contractions.
D. Maternal bradycardia is not typically associated with late decelerations. Late decelerations are primarily related to issues with oxygenation and blood flow to the fetus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The lowermost portion of the fetus is at the level of the ischial spines.
A. The lowermost portion of the fetus being at the level of the ischial spines is the correct interpretation of 0 station. In the station system, when the presenting part is at the level of the ischial spines, it is referred to as 0 station.
B. The largest fetal diameter passing through the pelvic outlet is generally represented by the complete passage of the fetus through the birth canal. This is more indicative of full cervical dilation (10 cm) rather than a specific station.
C. The posterior fontanel being palpable is not directly related to the concept of station. Fontanel palpation is more associated with determining fetal head position.
D. The fetal head being in the left occiput posterior position is related to fetal position, not station. The station describes the descent of the presenting part in relation to the ischial spines.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Cervical dilation.
A. Cervical dilation is a definitive sign of labor.
Cervical dilation is the opening of the cervix, and it is a key indicator of the active phase of labor. Measurement of cervical dilation is an essential component of assessing the progress of labor.
B. Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate various things, including the presence of old blood or mucus. While it could be a sign of impending labor, it is not a definitive confirmation of active labor.
C. Amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault could suggest rupture of membranes, but it alone does not confirm the active phase of labor.
D. Pain above the umbilicus is not a specific or conclusive sign of labor. Labor pain typically originates in the lower abdomen and pelvis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today