Maternity Nursing Q 60

---

For a patient in active labor, the nurse-midwife plans to use an internal electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) device. What must occur before the internal EFM can be applied?

  

     A. The membranes must rupture.

     B. The fetus must be at 0 station.

     C. The cervix must be dilated fully.

     D. The patient must receive anesthesia.

    

    

Correct Answer: A. The membranes must rupture.

---

Internal fetal heart rate monitoring uses an electronic transducer connected directly to the fetal skin. A wire electrode is attached to the fetal scalp or other body parts through the cervical opening and is connected to the monitor. Internal EFM can be applied only after the patient’s membranes have ruptured when the fetus is at least at the -1 station, and when the cervix is dilated at least 2 cm.

---

Option B: An electrode will be attached to the part of the infant’s body that is closest to the cervical opening.

Option C: Dilation of at least 2 cm is adequate enough to insert the electrode through the cervical opening.

Option D: Although the patient may receive anesthesia, it is not required before application of an internal EFM device.

---