Fetal Heart Rate Flashcards, test questions and answers
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What is Fetal Heart Rate?
Fetal heart rate (FHR) is an important indicator of fetal well-being during pregnancy. It can provide valuable insight into the health and development of a fetus, allowing medical professionals to take appropriate action when necessary. FHR is typically measured by placing a specialized ultrasound transducer on the mother’s abdomen or using Doppler technology to detect sound waves produced by the beating heart. This measurement can help determine if there are any problems with a baby’s growth and development, such as congenital heart defects or other abnormalities in its structure.The normal fetal heart rate ranges from 110 160 beats per minute (bpm). If it falls outside this range, it could suggest that something may be wrong with either the baby or its environment within the womb. For example, low FHR readings may indicate insufficient blood flow due to placental insufficiency while high readings can signal infection or dehydration. In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary to address these issues before they become serious enough to cause harm to both mother and child.Regular monitoring of FHR throughout pregnancy is an essential part of prenatal care in order to ensure optimal outcomes for both parent and infant alike. Such measurements are often taken during routine ultrasounds as well as at specific points during labor and birth. Additionally, certain medications used in labor have been known to affect FHR levels so healthcare providers must always monitor them carefully when administering drugs like oxytocin or magnesium sulfate intravenously in order to reduce any potential risks associated with their use.Overall, fetal heart rate is an important marker for assessing a developing baby’s wellbeing during gestation and delivery process which should not be overlooked by healthcare providers tasked with caring for expectant mothers and their unborn children.