The obstetrician is caring for a client with gestational hypertension. She is concerned about placental perfusion and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) after noting minimal fetal growth over the past month. What non-invasive antenatal test would the nurse anticipate the provider will order?

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

The gate control theory suggests that pain perception is not uniform and can be modulated by non-painful stimuli, such as touch or temperature, influencing the pain pathways.

Choice B rationale

The theory emphasizes that pain perception can be influenced by external factors, including psychological and physical interventions, not solely confined to the brain.

Choice C rationale

Pain signals can be modulated by stimulating other sensory nerves. For instance, massage or heat can activate non-nociceptive fibers, blocking pain signals at the spinal cord level.

Choice D rationale

Pain perception is not solely determined by tissue damage. The gate control theory highlights the modulation of pain by psychological and physical factors, showing that pain is a complex experience.