What should a nurse know about the contraction stress test (CST) when providing care for the antepartum woman?
It sometimes uses vibroacoustic stimulation.
It is considered negative if no late decelerations are observed with the contractions.
It is an invasive test; however, contractions are stimulated.
It is more effective than nonstress test (NST) if the membranes have already been ruptured.
It is more effective than nonstress test (NST) if the membranes have already been ruptured.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Vibroacoustic stimulation is a technique that uses sound to stimulate the fetus and elicit a response. It is sometimes used in conjunction with the nonstress test (NST), not the CST. The NST measures the fetal heart rate (FHR) in response to fetal movement, while the CST measures the FHR in response to uterine contractions.
Choice B reason: A negative CST result means that the FHR does not show any late decelerations during at least three contractions in a 10-minute period. Late decelerations are decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of a contraction and return to the baseline after the contraction ends. They indicate uteroplacental insufficiency, which means that the placenta is not delivering enough oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. A negative CST result is reassuring and suggests that the fetus is well-oxygenated and can tolerate labor².
Choice C reason: The CST is not an invasive test, as it does not involve inserting any instruments or devices into the uterus or the fetus. However, it does require stimulating contractions, either by giving the pregnant woman oxytocin (a hormone that causes uterine contractions) or by having her rub her nipples (which also releases oxytocin). The contractions can be uncomfortable and may trigger preterm labor in some cases.
Choice D reason: The CST is not more effective than the NST if the membranes have already been ruptured. In fact, the CST is contraindicated (not recommended) in women who have ruptured membranes, as it can increase the risk of infection and bleeding. The NST is a safer and simpler alternative to the CST, as it does not require stimulating contractions. However, the NST may not be as reliable as the CST in detecting fetal compromise.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: A sleepy, sedated affect is not a concerning sign, as it is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate. Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant that can cause drowsiness, lethargy, and reduced alertness.
Choice B reason: Absent ankle clonus is not a concerning sign, as it indicates a normal neuromuscular response. Ankle clonus is a rhythmic jerking of the foot when the ankle is dorsiflexed. It is a sign of hyperreflexia, which can occur in severe preeclampsia due to increased blood pressure and cerebral edema.
Choice C reason: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min is a concerning sign, as it indicates respiratory depression. This is a serious complication of magnesium sulfate toxicity, which can lead to respiratory arrest and death. The nurse should monitor the woman's respiratory rate closely and report any signs of respiratory distress.
Choice D reason: Deep tendon reflexes of 2+ are not a concerning sign, as they indicate a normal neuromuscular response. Deep tendon reflexes are graded from 0 to 4, with 2 being the average. Magnesium sulfate can cause hyporeflexia or areflexia, which are signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because venipuncture for blood work should be avoided on the affected arm. The mastectomy may have involved the removal of lymph nodes, which can impair the lymphatic drainage and increase the risk of lymphedema (swelling) in the arm. Venipuncture can cause further damage or infection to the arm.
Choice B reason: This is correct because the BP cuff should not be applied to the affected arm. The BP cuff can exert pressure on the arm and interfere with the blood and lymph flow. This can also increase the risk of lymphedema or pain in the arm.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because the affected arm should not be held down close to the woman's side. The woman should be encouraged to elevate the arm above the level of the heart and perform gentle exercises to promote circulation and prevent stiffness. The arm should not be immobilized or restricted.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because the affected arm should not be used for IV therapy. IV therapy can introduce fluids or medications into the arm that can affect the blood and lymph flow. It can also cause irritation or infection to the arm.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today