The normal FHR is 120-160 beats per minute. At 20 weeks they can be auscultated using a conventional stethoscope. It is important not to confuse fetal pulsations with the mother's heartbeat. Accelerations above normal can indicate fetal movement, contractions or fetal distress. Decelerations below normal can indicate low cardiac output and hypoxia.
Fetal tachycardia followed by bradycardia can be an ominous sign.
Assessing FHR should not delay transport. The best place for the pregnant trauma patients to be is in a hospital being evaluated by an experienced Emergency Room and Obstetrical team. The pregnant trauma patient is at a greater risk for vomiting and aspiration. Bowel sounds may or may not be present. Also, the acidity of gastric contents is increased.