Final answer:
Variable decelerations in fetal heart rate indicate fetal hypoxia and distress, leading to potential emergency delivery. The Apgar score is used immediately after birth to assess newborn well-being and identify the need for urgent medical care. Conditions such as IUGR and low birth weight during the prenatal period can also signal fetal health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assessment findings that indicate fetal hypoxia and distress include variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Fetal distress is evidenced by a sustained decrease or increase in the fetal heart rate due to severe contractions that can prevent oxygenated blood from being adequately restored to the fetus. This can necessitate emergency delivery methods such as vacuum, forceps, or Caesarian section. Monitoring these parameters is critical during labor and delivery.
After birth, the Apgar score assesses the newborn's transition from the womb. Criteria such as skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration are assigned scores. A total Apgar score below 7 at 5 minutes indicates the need for medical assistance, while a score below 5 is considered an emergency.
It is also important to monitor the fetus's overall health during the prenatal period as conditions like intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and low birth weight can be indicative of fetal distress, potential hypoxia, or other health issues.