ATI RN
Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is preparing a laboring person for an epidural. What is the most important nursing intervention before the procedure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ensure informed consent is signed. Before any procedure, it is crucial to obtain informed consent to ensure the individual understands the risks, benefits, and alternatives. This protects their autonomy and ensures they are making an informed decision. Administering IV fluids (B) is important but not as critical as obtaining consent. Monitoring vital signs (C) is essential but not the most important step before the procedure. Administering pain relief (D) should only be done after ensuring informed consent and assessing the individual's pain level.
Question 2 of 5
What is the primary purpose of a non-stress test (NST) during pregnancy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: to assess fetal heart rate accelerations. An NST is used to monitor the baby's heart rate and movement to ensure adequate oxygen supply. Fetal heart rate accelerations indicate a healthy, responsive baby. Assessing heart rate variability (A) is important but not the primary purpose. Evaluating fetal well-being (B) is broad and doesn't capture the specific focus on heart rate accelerations. Assessing maternal well-being (D) is not the purpose of an NST.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant woman who is 24 weeks gestation is experiencing excessive vomiting and dehydration. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, starting intravenous fluids to restore hydration and electrolytes. This is the priority intervention because dehydration during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby. By administering IV fluids, the nurse can quickly rehydrate the mother and replenish electrolytes to ensure the well-being of both. Choice A (Administer an antiemetic) may help control vomiting, but addressing dehydration is the primary concern. Choice B (Encourage rest) is important, but without addressing hydration first, rest alone will not resolve the issue. Choice D (Recommend smaller meals) may be helpful in managing nausea, but it does not address the immediate need for hydration and electrolyte balance.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assisting with a vaginal delivery. What is the most important action when the fetal head begins to crown?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: apply gentle downward pressure. This action helps prevent rapid delivery, reducing the risk of tearing and allowing the perineum to stretch gradually. It also helps control the delivery, ensuring a safe and controlled birth process. Performing perineal massage (B) is beneficial during the pushing stage but is not the most important action when the head crowns. Performing a vaginal exam (C) is unnecessary and may increase the risk of infection. Assisting with breathing exercises (D) is important during labor but not specifically when the head crowns.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assisting with a vaginal delivery. What is the most important action to take when the fetal head begins to crown?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: apply gentle downward pressure. This action helps prevent the baby from being born too quickly, reducing the risk of tearing for the mother. It also ensures a controlled delivery, decreasing the likelihood of complications such as shoulder dystocia. Administering pain relief (B) or analgesics (C) may be necessary but not the most crucial at this moment. Performing perineal massage (D) is beneficial for reducing the risk of tearing but is not as important as guiding the baby's head during crowning.