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

What is the usual count of expected fetal heart rate accelerations in a healthy fetus?

1. 1-2

2. 3-4

3. 5-6

4. 7-8

The correct answer is: 5-6

A healthy fetus typically displays an expected count of 5 to 6 fetal heart rate accelerations in a given time frame, often assessed within a 20-minute interval. These accelerations are generally defined as an increase in the fetal heart rate of at least 15 beats per minute for a duration of at least 15 seconds. This pattern indicates a well-oxygenated fetus and a healthy autonomic nervous system response. While some fetal heart rate patterns may show fewer accelerations, consistently observing at least 5 to 6 indicates that the fetus is likely thriving. A lower number of accelerations could suggest potential issues with fetal well-being, therefore monitoring for a higher count is critical during assessments. Understanding this normal range helps healthcare providers in evaluating fetal health and determining if further investigation is necessary.