How long must a change in baseline FHR be maintained to be considered the new baseline?

A change in baseline fetal heart rate (FHR) must be maintained for at least 10 minutes to be considered a new baseline. This duration allows for a sufficient assessment period to determine whether the FHR has truly shifted from its previous baseline rather than being a temporary fluctuation due to short-term factors, such as fetal movements or contractions.

In clinical practice, monitoring the baseline FHR is essential for assessing fetal well-being. If the heart rate remains altered for a full 10 minutes following the initial change, it indicates a more persistent shift in the fetal condition, warranting further observation or intervention as necessary. This standard is established to ensure accuracy in interpreting fetal heart rate changes and making informed clinical decisions.