Final answer:
The increase in the fetal heart rate during labor identified by the nurse is documented as an acceleration, which is usually a positive sign of fetal well-being. A resting tachycardic heart rate is typically above 100 bpm, but in the context of fetal monitoring during labor, an elevation like the one described is normal and not considered tachycardia.
Step-by-step explanation:
When monitoring the fetal heart rate of a client in labor, the nurse identifies an elevation of 15 beats above the baseline rate of 135 beats per minute lasting for 15 seconds, this should be documented as an acceleration. This temporary increase in the fetal heartbeat is often a sign of fetal well-being and is expected during labor, especially when the fetus is reacting to contractions or movements.
Tachycardia in a resting patient is usually defined as a heart rate above 100 beats per minute, and while there are many potential causes that can be serious, in a fetus or during labor, the heart rate can vary widely and short-term increases like the one described are generally considered normal. The elevated fetal heart rate described does not meet the clinical definition of tachycardia, as it is a temporary elevation and the baseline rate is within the normal range for a fetus. Understanding the context, and differentiating between acceleration and tachycardia is important for clinical assessment and interventions.