Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring and Interpretation

Practice flashcards for fetal heart rate monitoring and interpretation based on lecture notes.

What is the purpose of using a fetal heart monitor during labor?

To assess the well-being of the fetus and detect any signs of fetal compromise.

What does TOCO stand for and what is its function?

TOCO refers to the tocodynamometer, which measures uterine contractions.

What factors influence fetal heart rate?

The placenta, baby's nervous system, hormonal changes, medications, and mother's well-being.

What are fetal reserves?

The fetus' ability to tolerate oxygen level changes and stress during labor.

What does an umbilical cord blood acid base analysis determine?

If the fetus is experiencing oxygen deprivation or metabolic issues during labor.

What is Category One fetal heart rate pattern?

Considered normal with no interventions needed, with a baseline heart rate of 110-160 bpm.

What does baseline variability indicate?

The health of the fetus, showing fluctuations in the heart rate; absent variability is concerning.

What is fetal tachycardia?

A heart rate above 160 bpm, which can indicate distress.

What is the significance of early decelerations in fetal monitoring?

These decelerations indicate head compression during contractions and are typically normal.

What intervention is required for late decelerations?

Urgent intervention is required, such as repositioning the patient and assuring adequate oxygenation.

What does variable deceleration relate to, and what might be done in response?

Variable decelerations are indicative of cord compression; interventions may include repositioning the mother or amnio infusion.

What condition does prolonged deceleration indicate?

It may indicate severe fetal distress and is classified as a category three.

What are intrauterine resuscitation strategies?

Strategies used for category two or three patterns, including optimizing uterine blood flow and improving oxygenation.

What is the definition of tachysystole?

Frequent contractions with little to no resting tone.

What are some characteristics of fetal heart rate patterns that require monitoring?

Baseline, variability, presence of accelerations and decelerations.

What should a healthcare provider do if they notice abnormal fetal heart rate patterns?

Perform interventions to improve fetal oxygenation and notify the healthcare provider.