OverviewA nonstress test is a common prenatal test used to check on a baby's health. During a nonstress test, the baby's heart rate is monitored to see how it responds to the baby's movements. The term "nonstress" refers to the fact that nothing is done to place stress on the baby during the test. Show
Typically, a nonstress test is recommended when it's believed that the baby is at an increased risk of death. A nonstress test may be done after 26 to 28 weeks of pregnancy. Certain nonstress test results might indicate that you and your baby need further monitoring, testing or special care. A nonstress test is a noninvasive test that doesn't pose any physical risks to you or your baby. Why it's doneA nonstress test is used to evaluate a baby's health before birth. The goal of a nonstress test is to provide useful information about your baby's oxygen supply by checking his or her heart rate and how it responds to your baby's movement. The test might indicate the need for further monitoring, testing or delivery. Normally, a baby's heart beats faster when he or she is active later in pregnancy. However, conditions such as fetal hypoxia — when the baby doesn't get enough oxygen — can disrupt this response. Your health care provider might recommend a nonstress test if you have:
Your health care provider might recommend having nonstress tests once or twice a week — and occasionally daily — depending on your health and your baby's health. RisksA nonstress test is a noninvasive test that poses no physical risks for you or your baby. The term "nonstress" refers to the fact that nothing is done to place stress on the baby during the test. While a nonstress test can offer reassurance about your baby's health, it can cause anxiety, too. A nonstress test might suggest that a problem exists when there is none, which can lead to further testing. Reassuring results also aren't predictive of the future. Also, keep in mind that while a nonstress test is often recommended when there's an increased risk of pregnancy loss, it's not always clear if the test is helpful. How you prepareA nonstress test typically requires no special preparation. What you can expectA nonstress test is usually done in your health care provider's office. Before the procedureYou'll have your blood pressure taken before the nonstress test begins. During the procedureDuring the nonstress test, you'll lie on a reclining chair. You'll have your blood pressure taken at regular intervals during the test. Your health care provider or a member of your health care team will place a sensor around your abdomen that measures the fetal heart rate. Typically, a nonstress test lasts 20 minutes. However, if your baby is inactive or asleep, you might need to extend the test for another 20 minutes — with the expectation that your baby will become active — to ensure accurate results. Your health care provider might try to stimulate the baby by placing a noise-making device on your abdomen. After the procedureAfter the nonstress test is complete, your health care provider will likely discuss the results with you right away. ResultsResults of a nonstress test are considered:
A reactive nonstress test is considered reassuring regardless of the length of observation time needed. However, if the test is extended to 40 minutes and your baby's nonstress test results are nonreactive, your health care provider will likely do another prenatal test to further check your baby's health. For example:
Your health care provider might also ask you to have another nonstress test that day. Other possible causes of a nonreactive nonstress test result, besides the fetus being inactive or asleep, include decreased oxygen (fetal hypoxia), maternal smoking, maternal use of medications, and fetal neurological or cardiac anomalies. Rarely, during a nonstress test, problems with a baby's heart rate are detected that require further monitoring or treatment. Be sure to discuss the results of your nonstress test with your health care provider and what they might mean for you and your baby. In which position is a client placed when having a contraction stress test CST )?The nurse is caring for a pregnant client during a contraction stress test (CST). In what position should the nurse place the client? The semi-Fowler position prevents supine hypotension and is recommended for both safety and comfort.
Which client statement indicates understanding of teaching about a Nonstress test quizlet?Which client statement indicates understanding of teaching about a nonstress test? "If the heart reacts well, my baby should be OK when I give birth." The nonstress test is used to evaluate the response of the fetus to movement and activity.
Which instruction does the nurse give to a client who arrives in the birthing room with the fetal head crowning quizlet?A client arrives in the birthing room with the fetal head crowning. Birth is imminent. What should the nurse instruct the client to do? Use the pant-breathing pattern.
Which information would the nurse include in the discharge teaching of a postpartum client quizlet?Which information should the nurse include in the discharge teaching of a postpartum client? Exercises may be resumed immediately and should be done for the rest of the life because they help strengthen the muscle needed for urinary continence and may inhance sexual intercourse.
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