A nurse is educating a patient on the interpretation of a positive contraction stress test. Which of the following explanations is correct?

Choice A rationale

Administering oxytocin during a contraction stress test is to assess uteroplacental insufficiency, not to identify pain tolerance. The test evaluates fetal response to contractions.

Choice B rationale

Positive contraction stress tests are associated with poor fetal outcomes, indicating fetal distress during contractions due to inadequate placental perfusion.

Choice C rationale

A negative result in a contraction stress test indicates adequate placental function and fetal well-being, suggesting the fetus can tolerate labor without distress.

Choice D rationale

A positive test result suggests potential fetal compromise, including increased risk of fetal death, growth restriction, low Apgar scores, and need for C-section or resuscitation.

Choice A rationale: Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) assesses the amniotic fluid volume, an important indicator of fetal well-being. Normal AFI ranges from 5 to 24 cm. Abnormal levels may indicate potential complications such as oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios.

Choice B rationale: Fetal breathing movements are a key component of the biophysical profile, reflecting fetal central nervous system integrity. Typically observed for at least 30 seconds in a 30-minute period, absence may suggest hypoxia or CNS issues.

Choice C rationale: Fetal weight is not included in the BPP as it does not directly measure acute fetal well-being. It is assessed through ultrasound for growth monitoring and determining if the fetus is appropriate for gestational age.

Choice D rationale: Fetal tone evaluates fetal central nervous system function by observing limb or trunk movements. Normal tone includes flexion and extension movements, while decreased tone may indicate hypoxia or CNS dysfunction.

Choice E rationale: Non-Stress Test (NST) measures fetal heart rate accelerations in response to fetal movements. A reactive NST indicates fetal well-being, with at least two accelerations within 20 minutes, while a non-reactive NST may require further evaluation.

Choice F rationale: Fetal movement assessment involves counting gross body movements over a specified period. At least three movements in 30 minutes are considered normal, reflecting fetal CNS integrity. Decreased movement may indicate compromised fetal health.