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 A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"You should take the medication within 72 hours following unprotected sexual intercourse." This statement is accurate. Levonorgestrel is an emergency contraceptive that is effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sexual intercourse. It is crucial to use it as soon as possible for optimal effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
Choice B Reason:
"You should avoid taking this medication if you are on an oral contraceptive." This statement is not accurate. Levonorgestrel can be used as emergency contraception, even if the individual is already on an oral contraceptive. However, it's essential to follow the healthcare provider's guidance.
Choice C Reason:
"If you don't start your period within 5 days of taking this medication, you will need a pregnancy test." This statement is not entirely accurate. While a delayed period may occur after taking levonorgestrel, it does not necessarily indicate pregnancy. If there are concerns about pregnancy, a pregnancy test should be taken a few weeks after using emergency contraception.
Choice D Reason:
"One dose of this medication will prevent you from becoming pregnant for 14 days after taking it." This statement is not accurate. Levonorgestrel is primarily effective in the prevention of pregnancy when taken shortly after unprotected intercourse. It does not provide ongoing protection, and additional contraceptive methods should be considered for future encounters.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D.
A. Maintain the client NPO throughout the procedure: It is not necessary to maintain the client NPO (nothing by mouth) for a nonstress test. The test primarily involves monitoring fetal heart rate in response to the baby's movements and does not require fasting.
B. Place the client in a supine position: Placing the client in a left lateral position is often preferred for NST to optimize uterine blood flow and fetal oxygenation. The supine position can compromise blood flow to the uterus and is generally avoided, especially in later pregnancy.
C. Instruct the client to massage the abdomen to stimulate fetal movement: While the goal of the NST is to monitor fetal movements, instructing the client to actively stimulate fetal movement through abdominal massage is not a standard part of the procedure. Fetal movements should occur naturally.
D. Instruct the client to press the provided button each time fetal movement is detected: This is the correct action. During a nonstress test, the client is typically provided with a button to press whenever she feels fetal movement. This helps correlate fetal movements with changes in the fetal heart rate on the monitor, providing valuable information about the baby's well-being.
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