A patient at 30 weeks gestation is exhibiting signs of preterm labor and delivery. The health care provider (HCP) informs the patient that nothing can be done to disrupt this process. The patient is in distress and states, "Why can't something be done to save my baby?" The nurse understands the HCP's decision is likely based on which finding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a fetal heartbeat could not be obtained, it indicates that the fetus may no longer be viable, which would explain why the healthcare provider believes nothing can be done to save the baby.

A Patient at 30 Weeks Gestation Is Exhibiting Signs of Preterm