The fetal heart rate baseline is 140 beats/min. When contractions begin, the fetal heart rate drops suddenly to 120, and rapidly returns to 140 before the end of the contraction. Which nursing intervention is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This pattern describes early decelerations of the fetal heart rate, which are typically a normal response to fetal head compression during contractions. Changing the mother's position can help improve fetal circulation and is a common, non-invasive first step in managing early decelerations.

The Fetal Heart Rate Baseline Is 140 Beats/min