Non-reassuring fetal heart in labour — DRCOG MCQ

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ModerateLabourNon-reassuring fetal heart in labourDRCOG

A 37-year-old woman has persistent fetal bradycardia on admission in labour. When should this patient be referred?

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Correct answer: A — Refer immediately for urgent obstetric assessment

Refer immediately for urgent obstetric assessment is the best answer because the vignette is testing Non-reassuring fetal heart in labour and the recommended approach is consistent with NICE NG229. The other referral timings are either too slow for the risk described or use a pathway intended for a different presentation. Specifically, Arrange routine antenatal clinic review; Discuss elective induction next week; Refer within two weeks on a suspected cancer pathway; Refer early for specialist fertility assessment would be suboptimal in this scenario. Referral timing is determined by red flags, pregnancy stage and suspected cancer or emergency pathways.

Reference: NICE NG229