A nurse is observing the electronic fetal heart rate monitor tracing for a client who is at 40 weeks of gestation and is in labor. The nurse should suspect a problem with the umbilical cord when she observes which of the following patterns?
Accelerations
Early decelerations
Late decelerations
Variable decelerations
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is D. Variable decelerations.
A. Accelerations in the fetal heart rate are generally considered reassuring. Accelerations are an indication of fetal well-being and are often seen in response to fetal movement.
B. Early decelerations are typically associated with head compression during contractions and are considered a normal response to the pressure on the fetal head.
C. Late decelerations are indicative of uteroplacental insufficiency.
Late decelerations occur after the peak of the contraction and are associated with inadequate oxygenation to the fetus. This pattern raises concerns about the baby's well-being.
D. Variable decelerations are associated with umbilical cord compression.
Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the fetal heart rate that vary in duration, depth, and timing. They often coincide with contractions and suggest compression or occlusion of the umbilical cord.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Placing the client in a supine position for 30 minutes following the first dose of anesthetic solution is not a standard recommendation. The positioning during epidural placement is typically a seated or side-lying position.
Choice B Reason:
Administering 1,000 mL of dextrose 5% in water prior to the first dose of anesthetic solution is not a standard practice for epidural anesthesi
A. Fluids may be administered, but the type and volume depend on the patient's individual needs and the healthcare provider's orders.
Choice C Reason:
Monitoring the client's blood pressure every minute following the first dose of anesthetic solution is appropriate. Epidural anesthesia can potentially cause hypotension (low blood pressure), which is a common side effect. Therefore, close monitoring of the client's blood pressure is crucial, especially following the administration of the initial dose of the anesthetic solution. The goal is to promptly detect and manage any decrease in blood pressure to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Choice D Reason:
Ensuring the client has been NPO (nothing by mouth) for 4 hours prior to the placement of the epidural and the first dose of anesthetic solution is not a specific requirement for epidural anesthesi
A. NPO status is more relevant to surgical procedures involving general anesthesia and is not typically a strict requirement for epidural placement.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Assist the client to turn onto her side.
A. Assisting the client to turn onto her side is the correct intervention. This is because the client's blood pressure is low, and turning onto the side helps improve blood flow to the uterus, reducing the risk of supine hypotension.
B. Assisting the client to an upright position is not the priority in this case. The client is at risk for supine hypotension, and a lateral position is more appropriate.
C. Preparing for a cesarean birth is not indicated based solely on the blood pressure reading. Turning the client onto her side and monitoring the blood pressure response are appropriate initial actions.
D. Preparing for an immediate vaginal delivery is not indicated based solely on the blood pressure reading. The client's condition may improve with positional changes, and further assessment is needed.
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