NCC Certified Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM) Practice Exam

The presence of decelerations in fetal heart rate patterns is a significant indicator of fetal distress. Decelerations refer to a temporary decrease in the fetal heart rate from the baseline, which can occur during contractions or at other times. These patterns can signify that the fetus is experiencing some level of stress, often due to factors like umbilical cord compression, uteroplacental insufficiency, or other conditions affecting the fetus's oxygen supply.

In contrast, accelerations—temporary increases in fetal heart rate—are generally reassuring and often indicate a healthy fetal response to stimuli. A stable baseline reflects a consistent heart rate that does not indicate fluctuations associated with distress. Regular variability, which implies normal fluctuations in the heart rate reflecting a healthy autonomic control, also does not signal distress. Given these distinctions, recognizing decelerations as a marker of potential problems is crucial in the monitoring of fetal well-being during labor and delivery.