North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

FHT reactivity is typically achieved by the fetus between what weeks of gestation?

1. 24 to 26 weeks

2. 26 to 28 weeks

3. 28 to 32 weeks

4. 32 to 34 weeks

The correct answer is: 28 to 32 weeks

Fetal Heart Rate (FHT) reactivity is an important indicator of fetal well-being and typically begins to be observed in the later stages of gestation. Reactivity refers to the presence of accelerations in the fetal heart rate in response to fetal movement, which signifies a healthy, well-oxygenated fetus with a functioning autonomic nervous system. FHT reactivity generally develops as the fetus matures, particularly in the context of neurological development and the establishment of functional reflexes. Research and clinical guidelines indicate that by 28 weeks of gestation, the fetus has usually developed the capacity for FHT reactivity, consistent with the maturation of the central nervous system and the ability to integrate sensory inputs. Therefore, the timeframe of 28 to 32 weeks is crucial as it reflects a period when FHT begins to show regular patterns of reactivity, leading to more consistent accelerations. This timing is significant for healthcare providers as it serves as a vital benchmark for assessing fetal health and development, particularly in prenatal assessments such as non-stress tests. Thus, the correct answer indicating the typical weeks of gestation for achieving FHT reactivity is focused on the stage where there is reliable evidence of normal fetal development and functioning.