Maternity Flashcards
From what location is the fetal heart rate best auscultated?
The fetal back
When should periodic auscultation be done?
During the contraction and for 30 seconds afterward
What must have happened for the internal fetal scalp electrode monitor to be used?
Ruptured membranes and dilation of at least 2cm.
What spot should be avoided on the baby’s head with a scalp monitor?
The fontanel. Can’t be placed on a fontanel.
What is the normal baseline fetal heart rate range?
120-160
What are the conditions for determining the baseline FHR?
Must be from at least 10 minutes of a non-contracted heart rate.
What is indicative of fetal distress?
A fetal HR > 160 for 10+ minutes
List the potential causes of fetal tachycardia (6)
- hypoxia
- maternal fever
- amnionitis
- drugs (ex: cocaine, amphetamines, nicotine)
- newborn prematurity
- fetal activity
Fetal bradycardia
FHR < 110
At what point does bradycardia become a concern?
When it is present for more than 10 minutes
Potential causes of fetal bradycardia (5)
- fetal hypoxia
- fetal acidosis
- maternal drug use
- maternal hypotension
- prolonged compression of the umbilical cord
Range for normal FHR variability
6-25 bpm. (This is a good sign of fetal well being!)
Range for decreased/minimal FHR variability?
What do these indicate?
- 3 to 5 bpm
- these can indicate uteroplacental insufficiency, fetal hypoxia, or fetal acidosis
Range for absent FHR variability
0-2 bpm
Range for increased/marked FHR variability?
What do these indicate?
- > 25 bpm
- can indicate cord prolapse or compression, maternal hypotension, abruption, or uterine overstimulation
What is a sign of poor reserve in the fetus?
Poor/absent variability. The baby only has the energy to maintain the HR.
What are the parameters for an acceleration?
Increase by about 15 bpm and return to baseline within about 2 minutes
What is the baby telling you with accelerations?
Whoa this is a rollercoaster! But I’ve got the reserve to handle this! Things are good!
Explain what an early deceleration is
It is a decrease in FHR of ___ that mirrors contractions with a quick return to baseline. Are a result of the fetal head being squeezed in the vaginal tract so they most often occur late in labor.
