A nurse is caring for a client who is undergoing a fetal non-stress test (NST).
The nurse observes that the fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerates at least 10 bpm for at least 10 seconds with each fetal movement.
The client is 30 weeks pregnant.
How should the nurse interpret this finding?
The NST is reactive and normal for gestational age.
The NST is nonreactive.
The NST is reactive and abnormal for gestational age.
The NST is nonreactive and normal for gestational age.
The Correct Answer is A
The NST is reactive and normal for gestational age. This means that the fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerates at least 10 bpm for at least 10 seconds with each fetal movement, indicating that the fetus is healthy and getting enough oxygen. A reactive NST is expected for fetuses at 26 to 30 weeks of gestation.
Choice B is wrong because a nonreactive NST means that the FHR does not accelerate with fetal movement, which could indicate fetal distress or hypoxia. A nonreactive NST is abnormal for any gestational age and requires further evaluation.
Choice C is wrong because a reactive NST is not abnormal for gestational age. It is a normal finding that shows the fetus is well-oxygenated and responsive.
Choice D is wrong because a nonreactive NST is not normal for gestational age. It is an abnormal finding that suggests the fetus may be compromised or in need of intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The NST is reactive and normal for gestational age.This means that the fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerates at least 10 bpm for at least 10 seconds with each fetal movement, indicating that the fetus is healthy and getting enough oxygen.A reactive NST is expected for fetuses at 26 to 30 weeks of gestation.
Choice B is wrong because a nonreactive NST means that the FHR does not accelerate with fetal movement, which could indicate fetal distress or hypoxia.A nonreactive NST is abnormal for any gestational age and requires further evaluation.
Choice C is wrong because a reactive NST is not abnormal for gestational age.It is a normal finding that shows the fetus is well-oxygenated and responsive.
Choice D is wrong because a nonreactive NST is not normal for gestational age.It is an abnormal finding that suggests the fetus may be compromised or in need of intervention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
“The NST can be affected by my smoking or medication use.” This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because smoking and medication use can alter the fetal heart rate response and cause false-negative or false-positive results.
Some possible explanations for the other choices are:
• Choice A is wrong because the NST cannot detect chromosomal abnormalities in the baby.
The NST only measures the fetal heart rate and movement, not the genetic makeup of the baby.To detect chromosomal abnormalities, other tests such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling are needed.
• Choice B is wrong because the NST does not cause contractions or discomfort for the mother or the baby.The NST is a non-invasive and painless procedure that does not put any stress on the fetus.The only discomfort that may occur is from having a belt around the abdomen and a button to press when feeling fetal movement.
• Choice D is wrong because the NST cannot measure the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.
The NST only monitors the fetal heart rate and movement, not the volume of fluid in the uterus.To measure the amount of amniotic fluid, other tests such as ultrasound or amniotic fluid index are needed.
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