The newborn of a patient suspected to have used drugs during the prenatal period is admitted to the nursery.The nurse caring for the newborn notes that the infant is beginning to exhibit signs of drug withdrawal.Which action should the nurse take?

A nonstress test (NST) is a test in pregnancy that measures fetal heart rate and reaction to movement.Your pregnancy care provider performs a nonstress test to make sure the fetus is healthy and getting enough oxygen.It’s safe and painless, and gets its name because it puts no stress (nonstress) on you or the fetus.

Choice A is wrong because a nonstress test does not measure the mother’s ability to tolerate the discomfort of labor.A stress test is a different procedure that involves stimulating contractions and monitoring how the fetus responds.

Choice B is wrong because a nonstress test does not measure fetal lie, which is the position of the fetus in the uterus.

Fetal lie is usually determined by ultrasound or physical examination.

Choice D is wrong because a nonstress test does not measure maternal readiness for labor.A nonstress test typically happens after 28 weeks of pregnancy, when fetal heart rate starts reacting to movements.

Maternal readiness for labor is assessed by other factors, such as cervical dilation and effacement.

A transverse lie means that the baby is lying sideways across the uterus, instead of head-down or breech.

This position makes vaginal delivery impossible and increases the risk of umbilical cord prolapse, which can compromise fetal oxygen supply.Therefore, a cesarean delivery is indicated for a fetus in a transverse lie.

Choice A is wrong because having extremely slender hips does not necessarily mean that a woman cannot deliver vaginally.

The size and shape of the pelvis, not the external appearance, determines the adequacy of the birth canal.A trial of labor may be attempted for women with borderline pelvic measurements.

Choice C is wrong because fetal hyperactivity is not a reason for a cesarean delivery.

Fetal movements may vary depending on the time of day, maternal activity, maternal blood sugar level, and other factors.Fetal well-being can be assessed by fetal heart rate monitoring and biophysical profile.

Choice D is wrong because having a posterior cervix does not indicate the need for a cesarean delivery.

A posterior cervix means that the cervix is tilted toward the back of the uterus, which may make cervical dilation slower and more painful.However, with adequate contractions and maternal pushing, the cervix can move to an anterior position and allow vaginal delivery.