fetal distress
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: * An abnormal condition of a fetus; usually discovered during pregnancy and characterized by an abnormal heart rhythm: This term refers to a state where a fetus shows signs of being unwell or in danger, typically identified before birth through monitoring. The primary indicator is often a concerning change in the fetal heart rate.
Usage
- "Fetal distress" is a medical term used primarily by healthcare professionals in obstetrics.
- It describes a situation requiring medical evaluation and potential intervention to ensure the safety of the fetus.
- It is typically diagnosed through electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) during labor or prenatal check-ups.
Examples
- The obstetrician decided to perform an emergency cesarean section due to signs of fetal distress.
- Continuous monitoring is essential to detect fetal distress early during labor.
- The primary symptom prompting concern was fetal distress indicated by a non-reassuring heart rate pattern.
Advanced Usage
- The term "fetal distress" is sometimes considered non-specific. In modern clinical practice, more precise descriptions like "non-reassuring fetal status" may be used to describe specific heart rate patterns or other findings.
- It is a critical diagnosis that can lead to rapid changes in birth plans, such as assisted delivery or cesarean section.
Variants and Related Words
- Non-reassuring fetal status (NRFS): A contemporary clinical term often used to describe findings that may indicate fetal compromise.
- Intrauterine resuscitation: Medical interventions (like giving the mother oxygen, changing her position, or administering fluids) aimed at improving the fetal condition and alleviating distress.
Synonyms
- Non-reassuring fetal status
- Fetal compromise
Related Phrases
- To be in fetal distress: The state of the fetus.
- The scans showed the baby might be in fetal distress.
- Signs of fetal distress: Indicators or symptoms.
- The midwife was watching for any signs of fetal distress.
Noun
- an abnormal condition of a fetus; usually discovered during pregnancy and characterized by an abnormal heart rhythm