Master Variable Decelerations with Picmonic for Nursing RN

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Decelerations (and Accelerations) Overview

Early Decelerations

Late Decelerations

Mechanism of Labor

Induction of Labor

Variable Decelerations

Varied Decelerations of fetus heart

Picmonic

A variable deceleration is characterized by an abrupt decrease in FHR below the baseline with the onset to lowest point (nadir) less than 30 seconds. They can occur any time during the contraction cycle and last at least 15 seconds. They happen in approximately half of all labors and are usually transient and correctable. They have a characteristic U, V, or W shape on the fetal monitor and are noted by their rapid descent and ascent from the lowest point (nadir) of the deceleration.

6 KEY FACTS

Variable decelerations can occur at any time during uterine contractions and are caused by compression of the umbilical cord.

The umbilical cord can be wrapped around the fetal neck, chest, arm, or leg. When the cord is between the fetus and maternal pelvis, it can lead to compression. Also, a short cord, knot in the cord, or a prolapsed cord can lead to variable decelerations.

Variable decelerations commonly occur during the transition phase of labor as the fetus descends into the birth canal, which causes stretching of the umbilical cord and some compression.

It is important to provide oxygen by nonrebreather face mask to the mother to alleviate the shortage of oxygen exchanging across the placental to the fetus due to umbilical cord compression.

Depending on where the cord is being compressed, it is helpful to move the laboring mother side to side or to place her in knee chest position for prolapsed cord.

Whenever there is a nonreassuring fetal heart rate and pattern, it is important to discontinue oxytocin (Pitocin), because it will stop the simulation of the uterus and slow down the contractions.

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