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

An EFM tracing with absent variability and recurrent late decelerations would be categorized as what?

1. Normal (cat 1)

2. Indeterminate (cat 2)

3. Abnormal (cat 3)

4. Monitor closely

The correct answer is: Abnormal (cat 3)

An EFM tracing characterized by absent variability and recurrent late decelerations is categorized as abnormal (category 3) due to the significant concern for fetal well-being. Absent variability indicates that there is a lack of fluctuation in the fetal heart rate, which is typically a sign of potential fetal distress. Recurrent late decelerations suggest that there may be issues with uteroplacental perfusion, which typically occurs when the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen during contractions – a serious condition that could indicate the risk of fetal hypoxia. In category 3 tracings, immediate intervention may be required due to the strong likelihood of adverse outcomes for the fetus. On the other hand, normal tracings (category 1) show reassuring patterns, while indeterminate tracings (category 2) require further evaluation but are not indicative of immediate concern. Monitoring closely may be a consideration for certain situations but would not appropriately describe the urgency indicated by the specific EFM tracing in question. Thus, categorizing this tracing as abnormal (cat 3) is critical to ensure timely and appropriate clinical actions are taken to safeguard the health of the fetus.