The primigravida in labor asks the nurse to explain the electronic fetal heart rate monitor strip. The fetal heart rate baseline is 150, with accelerations to 165, variable decelerations to 140, and moderate long-term variability. Which statement indicates that the patient understands the nurse's teaching? "The most important part of fetal heart monitoring is the:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's understanding is demonstrated by selecting choice B, which correctly identifies the presence of variability as the most important part of fetal heart monitoring. Variability is an indication of the fetal neurological system's response to stimuli, and is therefore a reassuring sign of fetal well-being. While the absence of variable decelerations is preferable, their presence alone does not signify distress. The fetal heart rate baseline and depth of decelerations are important components to monitor, but are not the most important aspects.

The Primigravida in Labor Asks the Nurse to Explain the Electronic