Fetal Monitoring and Interpretation Practice Questions
19 free Fetal Monitoring and Interpretation practice questions for the NCLEX Exam. Tap an option to answer — you get instant feedback, the correct answer, and a detailed explanation for every question.
What is the normal baseline fetal heart rate (FHR)?
- A 110–160 bpm
- B 90–110 bpm
- C 160–200 bpm
- D 80–100 bpm
Correct answer: 110–160 bpm
The normal baseline fetal heart rate ranges from 110 to 160 bpm. Values outside this range may indicate fetal distress or other complications.
Which term describes periodic increases in fetal heart rate above the baseline?
- A Accelerations
- B Decelerations
- C Variability
- D Bradycardia
Correct answer: Accelerations
Accelerations are temporary increases in fetal heart rate. They are usually a reassuring sign of fetal well-being.
What is fetal bradycardia?
- A FHR below 110 bpm
- B FHR above 160 bpm
- C FHR between 120–140 bpm
- D FHR above 180 bpm
Correct answer: FHR below 110 bpm
Fetal bradycardia is defined as a baseline heart rate below 110 bpm. It may indicate fetal hypoxia or distress.
Which type of deceleration indicates uteroplacental insufficiency?
- A Late decelerations
- B Early decelerations
- C Variable decelerations
- D No decelerations
Correct answer: Late decelerations
Late decelerations occur after contractions and indicate decreased blood flow to the fetus. They are a sign of fetal distress.
Which nursing intervention is appropriate for late decelerations?
- A Increase oxytocin infusion
- B Place patient in supine position
- C Encourage pushing
- D Turn patient to left side
Correct answer: Turn patient to left side
Turning the patient to the left side improves uteroplacental blood flow. This helps reduce fetal distress.
Which variability pattern is most reassuring in fetal monitoring?
- A Absent variability
- B Minimal or low-amplitude variability
- C Marked variability
- D Moderate variability
Correct answer: Moderate variability
Moderate variability indicates a well-oxygenated and healthy fetus. It reflects a responsive autonomic nervous system.
What is the cause of variable decelerations?
- A Cord compression
- B Head compression
- C Placental insufficiency
- D Maternal hypotension
Correct answer: Cord compression
Variable decelerations are caused by umbilical cord compression. They can vary in timing and shape.
Which action should the nurse take for variable decelerations?
- A Change maternal position
- B Increase maternal IV fluid rate
- C Administer oxytocin
- D Encourage ambulation
Correct answer: Change maternal position
Changing the maternal position can relieve cord compression. This often improves fetal heart rate patterns.
What does absent fetal heart rate variability indicate?
- A Severe fetal hypoxia
- B Normal fetal status
- C Maternal dehydration
- D Strong contractions
Correct answer: Severe fetal hypoxia
Absent variability may indicate fetal hypoxia or acidosis. It requires immediate evaluation and intervention.
Which fetal heart rate pattern is most concerning?
- A Accelerations
- B Moderate variability
- C Late decelerations
- D Early decelerations
Correct answer: Late decelerations
Late decelerations are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency. They indicate potential fetal distress.
Which monitoring method uses an ultrasound transducer?
- A Internal monitoring
- B External monitoring
- C Fetal scalp electrode
- D Amniocentesis
Correct answer: External monitoring
External monitoring uses an ultrasound transducer to detect fetal heart rate. It is noninvasive and commonly used.
Which condition is required for internal fetal monitoring?
- A Intact amniotic membranes
- B Ruptured membranes
- C No contractions
- D Early pregnancy
Correct answer: Ruptured membranes
Internal monitoring requires ruptured membranes to place a fetal scalp electrode. It provides more accurate readings.
Which intervention is appropriate for fetal tachycardia?
- A Increase maternal temperature
- B Assess for infection
- C Encourage dehydration
- D Decrease oxygen
Correct answer: Assess for infection
Fetal tachycardia may indicate maternal infection or fever. Assessing and treating the underlying cause is important.
Which fetal heart rate is classified as tachycardia?
- A Below 100 bpm
- B 110–160 bpm
- C Above 160 bpm
- D 90–110 bpm
Correct answer: Above 160 bpm
Fetal tachycardia is defined as a heart rate above 160 bpm. It may be caused by infection or hypoxia.
What is the purpose of fetal monitoring during labor?
- A Measure maternal vital signs
- B Assess overall fetal well-being
- C Determine contraction strength only
- D Monitor maternal hydration
Correct answer: Assess overall fetal well-being
Fetal monitoring assesses the baby’s response to labor. It helps detect signs of distress early.
Which pattern indicates fetal well-being?
- A Late decelerations
- B Absent variability
- C Periodic accelerations
- D Prolonged decelerations
Correct answer: Periodic accelerations
Accelerations are a reassuring sign of fetal well-being. They indicate adequate oxygenation.
Which intervention is appropriate for prolonged decelerations?
- A Continue the current monitoring pattern
- B Reposition mother and provide oxygen
- C Increase oxytocin
- D Encourage pushing
Correct answer: Reposition mother and provide oxygen
Repositioning and oxygen improve fetal oxygenation. Prolonged decelerations require immediate intervention.
Which maternal position improves fetal oxygenation?
- A Supine
- B Left lateral
- C Prone
- D Trendelenburg
Correct answer: Left lateral
The left lateral position enhances uteroplacental blood flow. It helps improve fetal oxygenation.
Which is a priority nursing action when fetal distress is detected?
- A Document findings and continue routine monitoring
- B Encourage ambulation
- C Delay response
- D Notify provider and initiate interventions
Correct answer: Notify provider and initiate interventions
Prompt intervention is critical when fetal distress is identified. Notifying the provider and initiating corrective measures can prevent complications.