What is the cause of early decelerations in the fetal heart rate (FHR) of a laboring woman?
Cerebral compression
Cord compression
Uteroplacental insufficiency
Spontaneous rupture of membranes
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Cerebral compression is the cause of early decelerations, as it reflects the fetal head compression during uterine contractions. Early decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin and end with the onset and end of a contraction, respectively. They are symmetrical and mirror the shape of the contraction. Early decelerations are normal and benign, as they indicate that the fetus is responding to the increased intracranial pressure and maintaining adequate oxygenation.
Choice B reason: Cord compression is not the cause of early decelerations but of variable decelerations. Variable decelerations are abrupt and irregular decreases in the FHR that vary in onset, duration, and depth. They are usually caused by the umbilical cord being compressed or occluded by the fetal body, the maternal pelvis, or the uterine contractions. Variable decelerations can indicate fetal distress or hypoxia, especially if they are severe, frequent, or prolonged.
Choice C reason: Uteroplacental insufficiency is not the cause of early decelerations, but of late decelerations. Late decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of a contraction and return to the baseline after the contraction ends. They are symmetrical and have a gradual onset and recovery. They are usually caused by the reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the placenta and the fetus due to maternal or fetal factors. Late decelerations can indicate fetal distress or hypoxia, and require immediate intervention.
Choice D reason: Spontaneous rupture of membranes is not the cause of early decelerations, but it can be a risk factor for cord compression and variable decelerations. Spontaneous rupture of membranes is the breaking of the amniotic sac and the release of the amniotic fluid, which usually occurs during labor or shortly before it. Spontaneous rupture of membranes can cause the umbilical cord to prolapse or slip into the vagina, where it can be compressed or kinked by the fetal head or the contractions.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not the main reason, as the use of contraceptives for an extended time does not necessarily affect the fertility of a woman. Most contraceptives are reversible and do not cause permanent damage to the reproductive system. However, some contraceptives may take longer to wear off than others, and some may have side effects that can interfere with ovulation or implantation.
Choice B reason: This is the main reason, as the aging process can affect the ovaries and the quality and quantity of the eggs. As a woman ages, her ovarian reserve (the number of eggs in the ovaries) declines, and the eggs become more prone to chromosomal abnormalities. This can reduce the chances of conception and increase the risk of miscarriage or birth defects.
Choice C reason: This is not the main reason, as prepregnancy medical attention is not a prerequisite for achieving pregnancy. However, prepregnancy medical attention can be beneficial for a woman who is older than 35 years, as it can help identify and manage any existing or potential health problems that may affect the pregnancy, such as diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders.
Choice D reason: This is not the main reason, as personal risk behaviors are not specific to a woman who is older than 35 years. Personal risk behaviors are factors that can negatively affect the fertility of any woman, regardless of age. Some examples of personal risk behaviors are smoking, drinking, using drugs, having multiple sexual partners, or having sexually transmitted infections.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cramping is a common symptom of pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, due to the stretching of the ligaments and muscles that support the uterus. It is not a specific sign of abruptio placentae, which is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall.
Choice B reason: Uterine activity is a normal phenomenon of pregnancy, as the uterus contracts and relaxes periodically. It is not a specific sign of abruptio placentae, which is associated with increased uterine tone and tenderness.
Choice C reason: Bleeding is a possible sign of both abruptio placentae and placenta previa, which is the implantation of the placenta over or near the cervical os. However, bleeding is more common and severe in placenta previa than in abruptio placentae, as the latter can have concealed hemorrhage.
Choice D reason: Intense abdominal pain is the most prevalent clinical manifestation of abruptio placentae, as the blood accumulates behind the placenta and causes pressure and irritation of the uterine nerves. It is a distinguishing sign from placenta previa, which is usually painless.
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