North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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Fetal heart tones (FHT) should be evaluated how often during active labor?

10 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
60 minutes

The correct answer is: 30 minutes

In the context of active labor, it is recommended that fetal heart tones (FHT) be evaluated at least every 30 minutes. This frequency is essential for monitoring the well-being of the fetus during labor. Continuous or intermittent monitoring of FHT helps to quickly identify any signs of distress that may indicate issues such as uteroplacental insufficiency or cord compression. Monitoring every 30 minutes balances the need to keep an eye on fetal health with the interruption to the laboring person's experience. More frequent monitoring, such as every 10 or 15 minutes, might be appropriate in high-risk situations or if abnormalities are detected. However, in a typical labor progression for a low-risk individual, assessing FHT every 30 minutes is a standard guideline supported by current practices, reflecting the need for vigilance while respecting the laboring person's state. Evaluating FHT too infrequently, such as every 60 minutes, may not provide timely information on fetal condition, which is critical during the dynamic process of labor. Therefore, the recommendation aligns with maintaining both maternal comfort and fetal safety.