A nurse is explaining the purpose of a Doppler ultrasound blood flow analysis to a client who has intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

The nurse should inform the client that this test measures which of the following?

“I will have sensors placed on my abdomen to monitor the FHR and uterine contractions.” This statement indicates the client understands the test procedure of a CST, which is a test that triggers contractions and registers how the baby’s heart reacts.

The test is done by placing two sensor belts around the abdomen, one to measure the baby’s heartbeat and the other to measure contractions.

The client may receive oxytocin through an IV to induce contractions.

Choice B is wrong because the client does not need to fast for 24 hours before the test.

There is no evidence that fasting is required for a CST.

Choice C is wrong because the client will not be sedated during the test.

Sedation is not necessary for a CST and may interfere with the results.

Choice D is wrong because the client does not need to drink plenty of fluids before the test.

There is no evidence that drinking fluids is required for a CST.

This is a contraindication for the Contraction Stress Test (CST) because it increases the risk of infection and umbilical cord prolapse.

A CST is a test that measures the baby’s heart rate during uterine contractions induced by oxytocin or nipple stimulation.

Choice A is wrong because gestational diabetes is not a contraindication for the CST.

It is a condition that affects how the body processes glucose during pregnancy and may cause complications such as macrosomia (large baby), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or preeclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in urine).

Choice B is wrong because mild preeclampsia is not a contraindication for the CST.

It is a condition that causes high blood pressure and protein in urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy and may affect the placenta, kidneys, liver or brain.

Choice C is wrong because preterm labor is a relative contraindication for the CST, not an absolute one.

It means that the test may be performed if the benefits outweigh the risks, but it should be avoided if possible because it may trigger early labor or delivery.

Preterm labor is defined as regular uterine contractions with cervical changes before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Normal ranges for blood pressure are below 120/80 mmHg, for glucose are 70-100 mg/dL (fasting) or below 140 mg/dL (2 hours after eating), and for protein in urine are less than 300 mg/24 hours.