NCC Certified Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM) Practice Exam

An acceleration of fetal heart rate (FHR) during fetal scalp stimulation indicates a fetal pH of at least what value?

1. 7.09

2. 7.19

3. 7.29

4. 7.39

The correct answer is: 7.19

In the context of fetal heart rate monitoring, an acceleration of the fetal heart rate in response to fetal scalp stimulation is a positive indicator of fetal well-being. Specifically, this change suggests that the fetus is likely to have a more favorable acid-base status, which relates directly to the pH level of the fetal blood. Research indicates that a fetal heart rate acceleration typically reflects an adequate oxygenation status, implying a fetal pH of at least 7.19. Maintaining a pH above this threshold is critical, as it indicates that the fetus is not experiencing significant acidosis, which would manifest as a lower pH level. Therefore, the correlation between a healthy response to scalp stimulation and the pH level supports the conclusion that a pH of 7.19 or higher is associated with a positive fetal condition during such assessments. If the fetal pH were to drop below this level, it would typically be associated with signs of fetal distress, which may not elicit the same acceleratory response. Understanding this relationship is crucial for healthcare providers in interpreting fetal monitoring signals effectively and determining appropriate interventions when necessary.