Maternity Nursing: Intrapartum Q 20

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After doing Leopold’s maneuvers, the nurse determines that the fetus is in the ROP position. To best auscultate the fetal heart tones, the Doppler is placed:

  

     A. Above the umbilicus at the midline

     B. Above the umbilicus on the left side

     C. Below the umbilicus on the right side

     D. Below the umbilicus near the left groin

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Below the umbilicus on the right side

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Fetal heart tones are best auscultated through the fetal back; because the position is ROP (right occiput presentation), the back would be below the umbilicus and on the right side.

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Option A: The baby’s heartbeat is loudest in its upper chest or upper back, depending on which way the baby is facing.

Option B: If you hear the heartbeat loudest above the mother’s umbilicus, the baby may be in the breech position

Option D: If you hear the heartbeat loudest below the mother’s umbilicus, the baby is probably head down.

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