Question

A fetal heart tracing shows and early deceleration pattern. The nurse is aware that this indicates which interpretation?

a. the FHR slows early in the contraction, which is a normal finding
b. the FHR slows early in the contraction, which is an abnormal finding
c. the FHR slows at the peak of the contraction, which is a normal finding.
d. the FHR slows at the peak of the contraction, which is an abnormal finding.

Answer 1

A fetal heart tracing showing an early deceleration pattern indicates that the FHR slows early in the contraction, which is a normal finding.

Step-by-step explanation:

A fetal heart tracing showing an early deceleration pattern indicates that the FHR slows early in the contraction, which is a normal finding.**

Each contraction sharply reduces oxygenated blood flow to the fetus. For this reason, it is critical that a period of relaxation occur after each contraction. Fetal distress, measured as a sustained decrease or increase in the fetal heart rate, can result from severe contractions that are too powerful or lengthy for oxygenated blood to be restored to the fetus.

Understanding fetal heart tracings is important for detecting any abnormal patterns that may indicate fetal distress and the need for medical intervention.