The nurse is teaching a client in her third trimester about fetal movements (kick counts).
Which of the following client statements would indicate a correct understanding?
The nurse is teaching a client in her third trimester about fetal movements (kick counts).
Which of the following client statements would indicate a correct understanding?
A. "Five movements in one hour is considered typical fetal movement."
[24%]
B. "I should empty my bladder before measuring fetal movements."
[12%]
C. "Drinking non-sweetened beverages may increase the amount of fetal movements."
[2%]
D. "Ten movements in one hour is considered typical fetal movement."
[63%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Antepartum
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice D is correct. Fetal movements (kick counts) can be taught to a client in her third trimester. This helps reassure the client about fetal well-being and encourages bonding. Ten fetal movements per hour are typical, and a cause of concern is if there are less than ten fetal movements within two consecutive hours.
Choice A is incorrect. The normal fetal movements (kicks, flutters, or rolls) are ten per hour. If the amount of fetal movements within two consecutive hours is less than 10, the client should try drinking a sweetened beverage, walking, or eating a meal.
Choice B is incorrect. The client does not need to empty her bladder to obtain kick (fetal movement) counts. Emptying her bladder is something to be done for an amniocentesis performed after 20 gestational weeks.
Choice C is incorrect. The client should eat a meal or drink sweetened beverages as the increase in maternal glucose provokes more fetal movements.
Related Videos
6 Key Topics
Fetal Circulation
31.3 Fetal Circulation and Congenital Heart Defect Overview
Fetus in Utero
28.1 Pregnancy Basics & Early Assessment
3rd Trimester
28.1 Pregnancy Basics & Early Assessment
Additional Info
✓ Maternal perception of 10 distinct movements in a 1- to 2-hour period is reflective of a nonhypoxic fetus (at that point in time).
✓ Fetal movements (kick counts) are done in the third trimester so a woman can determine fetal well-being and improve bonding.
✓ Ten movements (kicks, flutters, or rolls) in one hour is typical fetal movement.
✓ Less than ten movements in two consecutive hours may be concerning. However, the client should try drinking something sweet, eating a meal, and moving to promote fetal movement.
