Course 2

Course 2: Case Scenario Emphasizes Variable Decelerations

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Course 2: Case Scenario Emphasizes Variable Decelerations reviews FHR pattern definitions and pathophysiology with emphasis on variable decelerations. This course presents a series of questions, followed by detailed feedback, explanation and references. Medical illustration and animation provide additional information for key concepts.

Learning Objectives

At the completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

  • Explain the standardized definitions for visual interpretation of electronic fetal heart rate monitoring patterns as proposed by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Research Planning Workshop in 1997.
  • Describe the characteristics of variable decelerations.
  • Identify the four categories of FHR baseline variability.
  • Define normal baseline FHR and bradycardia and tachycardia
  • Describe the difference in a prolonged deceleration and baseline change.
  • Differentiate between periodic and episodic FHR patterns.
  • List the 5 individual components required for a full description of FHR tracing patterns.
  • Explain the pathway for oxygen from the atmosphere to the fetus.
  • Categorize FHR patterns into three categories:
    Clearly normal
    Intermediate
    Clearly abnormal

A 5 question post-test is designed to document the participant’s knowledge of standardized fetal heart rate terminology and pattern recognition related to the case scenario.