What is the most common cause of early decelerations in fetal heart rate?
Fetal head compression
Uteroplacental insufficiency
Cord compression
Maternal hypertension
The Correct Answer is A
A. Fetal head compression. Early decelerations are typically caused by fetal head compression during contractions. This is usually a benign finding and indicates that labor is progressing.
B. Uteroplacental insufficiency. Uteroplacental insufficiency causes late decelerations, not early decelerations. Late decelerations are more concerning and indicate fetal distress.
C. Cord compression. Cord compression causes variable decelerations, not early decelerations. Variable decelerations can occur at any time during a contraction.
D. Maternal hypertension. Maternal hypertension is not a direct cause of early decelerations. It may contribute to uteroplacental insufficiency, which causes late decelerations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Nothing—this is a normal finding. Fetal heart rate accelerations are reassuring and indicate good fetal oxygenation and well-being. No intervention is needed.
B. Place patient on her left side. Changing position is an intervention for decelerations or abnormal fetal heart rate patterns, not for accelerations.
C. Give oxygen: Oxygen is administered in cases of fetal distress, such as prolonged decelerations or bradycardia, but not for normal accelerations.
D. Call provider. Accelerations are a positive sign, and there is no need to call the provider for this normal finding.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Assist in initiating IV access and administering IV fluid bolus: While IV fluids may be needed, the priority in this case is to address the umbilical cord prolapse, which poses an immediate risk to the baby.
B. Call for assistance immediately: Cord prolapse is an obstetric emergency that requires immediate assistance to prevent fetal hypoxia. Rapid response is crucial to save the baby.
C. Apply finger pressure to the presenting part: Although applying pressure to relieve compression on the cord is necessary, the first action should be to summon help to manage the emergency.
D. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather: Oxygen is important to improve maternal and fetal oxygenation, but calling for help is the immediate priority in this life-threatening situation.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.