Quiz #3 - Fetal Monitoring Flashcards
Advantages of fetal monitoring
Gives more data about fetus and auscultation, gives record that can be printed, gradual trends in FHR is more obvious
Limitations of fetal monitoring
Mom can’t move around as easy
What is external fetal monitoring?
Remote surveillance of FHR. There’s an ultrasound transducer that’s secured on belly with straps. Less accurate, but works.
What is a toco-transducer?
A pressure-sensitive area that can find changes and abdominal contour to measure uterine activity
What is the main advantage of using an internal monitoring device?
Accuracy! Needs a ruptured membrane and at least 2cm dilation. Risk of infection.
2 types of internal fetal monitoring systems.
- Fetal scalp electrode (FSE): detects electrical signals from heart
- Intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC)
What are accelerations?
Increase by 15bpm in FHR
When do accelerations in FHR occur?
With fetal movement, during vag exam, contractions, mild cord compression, breached infants
When do early decelerations happen in FHR?
Mirrors contractions. Associated with fetal head compression. Consistent and nothing to worry about.
When do late decelerations appear?
After the contraction.
What do late decelerations mean?
Impaired oxygen exchange. Not reassuring!! We need to improve placental blood flow/oxygen supply.
When do variable decelerations happen?
They’re random, but very drastic! Look like V’s.
What are variable decelerations associated with?
Reduced flow through umbilical cord (compression).
What is category I FHR?
Normal. Reassuring.
What is category II FHR?
Intermediate (ambiguous data). Has reassuring characteristics but some parts are nonreassuring
