- The fetal heart rate (FHR) should be checked with a Doppler device or by auscultation with a stethoscope.
- A normal FHR is between 110 and 160 beats per minute [1].
- FHR has various patterns that are informative of fetal status. Listen for FHR changes. VEAL-CHOP-MINE is an acronym that can help the provider remember that late or variable decelerations can be concerning, particularly if recurrent. Early decelerations are associated with fetal head compression and are not concerning for fetal compromise. Fetal accelerations are indicative of reassuring fetal status [1].
Please be aware in a recent study involving intrapartum oxygen supplementation, the results found that oxygen supplementation did not resolve category II fetal heart rate tracings [2]. Based on this body of research, routine use of oxygen supplementation in individuals with normal oxygen saturation is not recommended for fetal intrauterine resuscitation. Prepare for delivery of these patients.
- Curran, Anna. March 14, 2022. Retrieved from VEAL CHOP Nursing – NurseStudy.Net on July 14, 2024.
- Raghuraman N, López JD, Carter EB, Stout MJ, Macones GA, Tuuli MG, et al. 2020. The effect of intrapartum oxygen supplementation on category II fetal monitoring. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020;223:905.e1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.06.037
Disclaimer: Please follow your facilities guidelines, policies, and procedures.
