What should be included in a complete assessment of fetal heart monitoring?

A complete assessment of fetal heart monitoring encompasses both fetal heart rate patterns and uterine contraction patterns. Monitoring fetal heart rate is crucial because it provides insight into the fetal well-being and can indicate potential distress or complications. Additionally, understanding uterine contraction patterns is essential since they can directly affect fetal heart rate. For instance, during contractions, the blood flow to the placenta may decrease, leading to changes in the fetal heart rate that need to be interpreted in conjunction with uterine activity.

By integrating these two data points—fetal heart rate and uterine contraction patterns—a healthcare provider can make more informed decisions regarding the management of labor and delivery. This comprehensive assessment allows for better identification of any deviations from normal patterns, leading to timely interventions if necessary. Thus, including both aspects ensures a thorough evaluation of the fetal status during labor.