What range of beats per minute characterizes moderate variability in fetal heart rate?

What range of beats per minute characterizes moderate variability in fetal heart rate?

• A. Less than 5 BPM
• B. 6-25 BPM
• C. Greater than 25 BPM
• D. No variability

Answer: (B)

Moderate variability in fetal heart rate is defined as a fluctuation in the heart rate that ranges between 6 to 25 beats per minute. This level of variability is generally considered a reassuring sign of fetal well-being, indicating that the autonomic nervous system of the fetus is functioning properly. Such variability suggests that the fetus is reacting to the environment and is not experiencing significant distress. Variability is assessed through monitoring patterns in fetal heart rates, and understanding these patterns is crucial for evaluating fetal health and making appropriate clinical decisions. Moderate variability is ideal as it reflects adequate oxygenation and fetal well-being. The other ranges mentioned do not meet the criteria for moderate variability; for instance, less than 5 BPM indicates minimal or absent variability, while greater than 25 BPM represents marked variability, which may require closer investigation to understand the underlying causes.

Moderate variability in fetal heart rate is defined as a fluctuation in the heart rate that ranges between 6 to 25 beats per minute. This level of variability is generally considered a reassuring sign of fetal well-being, indicating that the autonomic nervous system of the fetus is functioning properly. Such variability suggests that the fetus is reacting to the environment and is not experiencing significant distress.

Variability is assessed through monitoring patterns in fetal heart rates, and understanding these patterns is crucial for evaluating fetal health and making appropriate clinical decisions. Moderate variability is ideal as it reflects adequate oxygenation and fetal well-being. The other ranges mentioned do not meet the criteria for moderate variability; for instance, less than 5 BPM indicates minimal or absent variability, while greater than 25 BPM represents marked variability, which may require closer investigation to understand the underlying causes.