Tachycardia is defined as a baseline fetal heart rate exceeding what value for over ten minutes?

Tachycardia in the context of fetal heart rate is specifically defined as a baseline fetal heart rate that exceeds 160 beats per minute (bpm for a duration of over ten minutes. This threshold is significant because it has been established through research and clinical guidelines as an important indicator of fetal well-being or distress. A sustained elevation of the fetal heart rate may suggest factors such as fetal hypoxia, maternal fever, or infection, which could necessitate further evaluation and intervention.

The value of 160 bpm serves as a clinical benchmark. When the heart rate rises above this level, it alerts healthcare providers to potential complications that may require monitoring or treatment. Recognizing this elevation early can significantly influence maternal-fetal outcomes. Consequently, understanding the definition of tachycardia at this specific threshold is crucial for effective fetal monitoring and ensuring timely clinical responses as needed.