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 D
Explanation
A. Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate the presence of old blood or mucus and is not necessarily a cause for concern in the absence of other signs or symptoms.
B. Contractions occurring every 4 to 5 minutes are within the normal frequency range during the first stage of labor.
C. Pink mucoid vaginal discharge, also known as the "bloody show," is a common occurrence in early labor and is not typically a cause for immediate concern.
D. Contractions lasting 100 seconds are excessively long and are a cause for concern.
Prolonged contractions can lead to decreased uterine blood flow, impacting fetal oxygenation. Such prolonged contractions should be assessed and addressed promptly.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is B. Turn the client onto her side.
A. Administering oxygen to the client is a reasonable intervention in the presence of late decelerations, but turning the client onto her side is the priority action to relieve potential compression of the vena cava and improve fetal oxygenation.
B. Turning the client onto her side is the correct first action.
Late decelerations are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency. Changing the client's position, especially to the left lateral position, can help alleviate pressure on the vena cava, improving blood flow to the uterus and fetal oxygenation.
C. Increasing the client's IV fluid infusion rate may be considered, but it is not the first action to address late decelerations. Positioning changes should be initiated promptly.
D. Palpating the client's uterus is an assessment that may be done, but it is not the first action when late decelerations are observed. Positioning changes take precedence.
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