What is considered a reactive nonstress test (NST)?
A decrease in fetal heart rate during monitoring
The presence of at least two fetal heart rate accelerations during 20 minutes of monitoring
A rise in fetal heart rate of at least 15/min from baseline lasting for at least 15 seconds
The absence of fetal heart rate accelerations during monitoring
The Correct Answer is B
A. A decrease in fetal heart rate during monitoring: A decrease in fetal heart rate (deceleration) is not a reassuring sign and suggests fetal distress, which is not considered reactive.
B. The presence of at least two fetal heart rate accelerations during 20 minutes of monitoring: A reactive NST is defined as at least two fetal heart rate accelerations of 15 beats per minute lasting at least 15 seconds within a 20-minute period, indicating fetal well-being.
C. A rise in fetal heart rate of at least 15/min from baseline lasting for at least 15 seconds: While this is part of the criteria for determining accelerations, the key aspect of a reactive NST is the presence of at least two such accelerations within a 20-minute period.
D. The absence of fetal heart rate accelerations during monitoring: The absence of accelerations in a 40-minute period is classified as a nonreactive NST, which may indicate fetal hypoxia or other concerns requiring further evaluation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I should schedule the test when the baby is usually active." The test relies on fetal movements to assess heart rate responses, so scheduling it when the baby is active improves accuracy.
B. "I will have to lie on my back during the test." Lying on the back (supine) can cause supine hypotensive syndrome by compressing the inferior vena cava. The client should lie in a semi-Fowler’s or left lateral position.
C. "My baby's heart rate will be monitored during the test." The NST assesses fetal heart rate patterns in response to movement, so monitoring the fetal heart rate is essential.
D. "It will take 20 to 30 minutes to complete the test." An NST typically lasts 20-30 minutes unless additional monitoring is needed due to a nonreactive result.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This test assesses fetal lung maturity. Fetal lung maturity is assessed using the lecithin-sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio or phosphatidylglycerol (PG) test, typically performed after 32 weeks of gestation.
B. This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. Rh incompatibility is detected through an indirect Coombs test, not an MSAFP test.
C. It assesses various markers of fetal well-being. The biophysical profile (BPP) and nonstress test (NST) assess fetal well-being, not MSAFP.
D. It is a screening test for spinal defects in the fetus. MSAFP is a screening test for neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida, anencephaly) and chromosomal abnormalities. High levels may indicate neural tube defects, while low levels may suggest Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities.
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