Question

Tachycardia is a non-reassuring sign when associated with

a. Maternal hypertension during labor.

b. Late decelerations in fetal heart rate.

c. Adequate oxygenation of the fetus.

d. Absence of contractions during labor.

Answer 1

Tachycardia is concerning during labor when it is associated with late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, indicating potential fetal distress and the potential need for emergency birth interventions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Tachycardia, which is defined as a resting heart rate (HR) above 100 beats per minute (bpm), can be a non-reassuring sign when associated with certain conditions during labor. Specifically, tachycardia is concerning when it occurs in combination with late decelerations in fetal heart rate, as this can indicate fetal distress. Late decelerations are a sign that the fetus may not be receiving adequate oxygen due to factors such as uteroplacental insufficiency, and when paired with a mother's tachycardia, it raises concerns for both maternal and fetal wellbeing.

Other causes of tachycardia in a pregnant patient include severe contractions, maternal drug abuse, hypertension, and other stressors that may compromise the oxygenation of the fetus. Such situations of fetal distress can necessitate an emergency birth, possibly requiring intervention with vacuum, forceps, or Caesarian section to safely deliver the baby.