Intrapartum Complications Nursing Related

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In which situation would a baseline fetal heart rate of 160 to 170 bpm be considered a normal finding?

  • A. The fetus is at 30 weeks of gestation.
  • B. The mother has a history of fast labors.
  • C. The mother has been given an epidural block.
  • D. The mother has mild preeclampsia but is not in labor.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because at 30 weeks of gestation, a fetal heart rate of 160 to 170 bpm is considered normal due to the fetus's stage of development. Fetal heart rates gradually decrease as gestation progresses. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly impact the fetal heart rate based on gestational age. Choice B, fast labors, does not affect the baseline fetal heart rate. Choice C, epidural block, may cause maternal hypotension but typically doesn't affect the fetal heart rate. Choice D, mild preeclampsia, may lead to fetal distress but does not directly influence the baseline fetal heart rate.