A nurse is reviewing the results of a nonstress test (NST) for a pregnant client at 32 weeks of gestation.
The nurse notes that the fetal heart rate (FHR) baseline is 140 bpm with moderate variability and two accelerations of 15 bpm lasting 15 seconds each in a 20-minute period.
How should the nurse interpret these findings?
The NST is reactive, indicating fetal well-being
The NST is nonreactive, indicating fetal compromise
The NST is inconclusive, requiring further testing
The NST is invalid, requiring a repeat test
The Correct Answer is A
The NST is reactive, indicating fetal well-being. A reactive NST means that the fetal heart rate increases by at least 15 bpm for at least 15 seconds twice or more in a 20-minute period. This shows that the fetus is healthy and getting enough oxygen.
Choice B is wrong because a nonreactive NST means that the fetal heart rate does not show the expected accelerations in a 40-minute period, which may indicate fetal compromise.
Choice C is wrong because an inconclusive NST means that the test results are unclear or not enough data was collected, which may require further testing.
Choice D is wrong because an invalid NST means that the test was not performed correctly or there was interference with the fetal heart rate monitoring, which may require a repeat test.
Normal ranges for fetal heart rate are 110 to 160 bpm with moderate variability (5 to 25 bpm) and no decelerations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The NST is reactive, indicating fetal well-being.A reactive NST means that the fetal heart rate increases by at least15 bpmfor at least15 secondstwice or more in a20-minuteperiod.This shows that the fetus is healthy and getting enough oxygen.
Choice B is wrong because a nonreactive NST means that the fetal heart rate does not show the expected accelerations in a 40-minute period, which may indicate fetal compromise.
Choice C is wrong because an inconclusive NST means that the test results are unclear or not enough data was collected, which may require further testing.
Choice D is wrong because an invalid NST means that the test was not performed correctly or there was interference with the fetal heart rate monitoring, which may require a repeat test.
Normal ranges for fetal heart rate are110 to 160 bpmwith moderate variability (5 to 25 bpm) and no decelerations.
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
A nonstress test (NST) is a non-invasive test used to evaluate a baby’s well-being by monitoring fetal heartbeat and movements.The equipment needed for this procedure includes a belt with two transducers and a paper strip or a computer screen.The belt with two transducers is used to measure the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions, while the paper strip or computer screen displays the results.
Choice A is wrong because a reclining chair or bed is not necessary for an NST.The test can be done while the pregnant person is seated comfortably in a chair or resting in a reclined position on a table.
Choice D is wrong because a button for the client to press is not required for an NST.The test does not depend on the client’s perception of fetal movement, but rather on the objective measurement of fetal heart rate and uterine activity.
Choice E is wrong because an acoustic stimulator is not part of the standard equipment for an NST.
An acoustic stimulator is a device that produces a loud noise to stimulate the fetus and elicit a heart rate response.It may be used in some cases when the NST results are nonreactive, but it is not routinely used.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today