A 38-week pregnant client is scheduled to undergo a nonstress test (NST). While speaking with the nurse, the client inquires regarding the purpose of this type of testing.
The most appropriate response by the nurse would be which of the following?
A 38-week pregnant client is scheduled to undergo a nonstress test (NST). While speaking with the nurse, the client inquires regarding the purpose of this type of testing.
The most appropriate response by the nurse would be which of the following?
A. "This test determines whether you are ready for labor induction."
[13%]
B. "A nonstress test assesses your blood sugar control."
[2%]
C. "This testing provides an accurate determination of fetal age."
[2%]
D. "A nonstress test assesses the fetal condition in the third trimester."
[83%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Antepartum
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice D is correct. A nonstress test (NST) is a non-invasive test performed in pregnancies over 28 weeks gestation. During the procedure, fetal heart rate and uterine contractions are recorded using external electronic monitors and correlated with fetal movements as reported by the mother. This test determines the fetus's condition during the third trimester of pregnancy.
Choice A is incorrect. Cervical assessment estimates whether the cervix is favorable for labor induction. More specifically, the Bishop scoring system assesses cervical readiness for labor via five factors: cervical dilation, effacement, consistency, position, and fetal station.
Choice B is incorrect. Blood sugar control can be assessed during pregnancy by random blood glucose assessments or, for a larger assessment, by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Additionally, during pregnancy, several tests are used to identify gestational diabetes. The first, called the Glucose Challenge Screening, is a preliminary screening test performed between 26 and 28 weeks. If a woman tests positive during this screening test, the second test, called the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), may be performed.
Choice C is incorrect. A nonstress test does not determine fetal age. Ultrasound measurement of the embryo or fetus in the first trimester is the most accurate method to establish or confirm gestational age.
Learning Objective
Correctly identify a nonstress test (NST) as a non-invasive procedure that determines fetal condition during the third trimester of pregnancy.
Related Videos
4 Key Topics
3rd Trimester
28.1 Pregnancy Basics & Early Assessment
Nonstress Test
