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

What risk is associated with complete heart block in the fetus?

1. Increased chances of low birth weight

2. Risk of needing a neonatal pacemaker

3. Higher likelihood of birth trauma

4. Development of severe jaundice

The correct answer is: Risk of needing a neonatal pacemaker

The risk associated with complete heart block in the fetus primarily involves the potential necessity for a neonatal pacemaker. In cases of complete heart block, the electrical signals between the heart's chambers are interrupted, leading to a slow and ineffective heart rate. If this condition is not resolved pre-delivery, it can result in significant bradycardia (a slowed heart rate) in the newborn. When a fetus has complete heart block, the heart's ability to maintain an adequate rate of blood flow can be compromised, which may lead to further complications post-delivery. If the heart rate is dangerously low, medical intervention is required to stabilize the newborn's heart function. A pacemaker may be necessary to ensure that the heart beats at an appropriate rate and rhythm, thereby preventing any life-threatening conditions that can arise from severe bradycardia. Other options, such as increased risk of low birth weight, higher likelihood of birth trauma, or development of severe jaundice, are generally not direct consequences of complete heart block. While these factors can influence overall fetal health in different contexts, they do not capture the specific risks presented by the impairment of heart function caused by complete heart block.