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
The correct answer is A.
A. Oligohydramnios: Oligohydramnios is a condition characterized by a lower-than-normal level of amniotic fluid in the uterus. Fetal assessment using electronic fetal monitoring may be indicated to monitor the well-being of the fetus, as oligohydramnios can be associated with fetal growth restriction and other complications.
B. Hyperemesis gravidarum: Hyperemesis gravidarum refers to severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. While it can be a challenging condition, it is not typically an indication for electronic fetal monitoring. Fetal monitoring is generally performed for conditions that directly impact the well-being of the fetus.
C. Leukorrhea: Leukorrhea refers to an increase in vaginal discharge, which is a common and normal occurrence during pregnancy. It is not an indication for electronic fetal monitoring, as it does not directly impact fetal well-being.
D. Periodic tingling of the fingers: Periodic tingling of the fingers is not typically an indication for fetal assessment using electronic fetal monitoring. It may be related to factors such as nerve compression or changes in circulation but is not a direct indication for monitoring the fetus.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is B. Position the client with one hip elevated.
A. Having the client void is a good practice, but it is not the priority action in this situation. The client's vital signs suggest a potential issue with uteroplacental perfusion, and repositioning the client should be the priority.
B. Positioning the client with one hip elevated is the priority action.
The vital signs, specifically the low blood pressure, may be indicative of aortocaval compression (supine hypotension). Elevating one hip helps alleviate this compression, improving blood flow and potentially addressing the decreased blood pressure.
C. Asking the client if she needs pain medication is important, but repositioning the client takes precedence due to the potential issue with blood pressure and uteroplacental perfusion.
D. Notifying the provider is important, but repositioning the client to improve blood flow should be done first. The provider may be notified afterward based on the client's response and ongoing assessment.
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