A client who is 32 weeks gestation and has gestational diabetes calls the provider’s office to report decreased fetal movement over the last several hours. The provider advises her to report to OB triage for further testing.
What test should you anticipate the provider will order?
Non-stress test.
Contraction stress test.
Biophysical profile.
Ultrasound.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A non-stress test (NST) is a common test used to evaluate fetal well-being, especially in cases of decreased fetal movement. It measures the fetal heart rate in response to its movements. A reactive NST, where the fetal heart rate increases with movement, indicates good oxygenation and neurological function.
Choice B rationale
A contraction stress test (CST) evaluates the fetal heart rate response to uterine contractions, which can be induced by oxytocin or nipple stimulation. It is typically used to assess placental function and fetal tolerance to labor, not for initial assessment of decreased fetal movement.
Choice C rationale
A biophysical profile (BPP) combines an NST with ultrasound to assess fetal breathing, movement, tone, and amniotic fluid volume. While comprehensive, it is more time-consuming and usually reserved for further evaluation if the NST is non-reactive.
Choice D rationale
An ultrasound can assess fetal growth, amniotic fluid volume, and anatomical structures. However, it does not provide real-time information on fetal heart rate reactivity, making it less suitable for immediate assessment of decreased fetal movement.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This statement is incorrect. Vagus nerve stimulation actually decreases FHR variability. The vagus nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system, slows the heart rate and reduces variability.
Choice B rationale
This statement is correct. Baroreceptors are sensors located in blood vessels that help regulate blood pressure by detecting changes in the stretch of the vessel walls. They play a crucial role in maintaining stable blood pressure levels.
Choice C rationale
This statement is correct. The autonomic nervous system, which includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, controls the fetal heart rate. It regulates the balance between heart rate acceleration and deceleration.
Choice D rationale
This statement is correct. Chemoreceptors respond to changes in blood gas levels, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. They help regulate respiratory and cardiovascular responses to maintain homeostasis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Keeping four side rails up is a safety measure to prevent falls, but it is not specific to the care of a client in active labor. It is a general safety precaution used for clients who are at risk of falling or have impaired mobility.
Choice B rationale
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not a routine action for a client in active labor. Catheterization is typically reserved for specific medical indications, such as urinary retention or the need for accurate urine output measurement in certain high-risk situations.
Choice C rationale
Checking the cervix prior to administering medication is crucial in active labor. This ensures that the medication is appropriate for the stage of labor and helps avoid complications such as administering pain relief too early or too late, which could affect labor progression and fetal well-being.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring the fetal heart rate (FHR) every hour is important, but it may not be frequent enough in active labor. Continuous or more frequent monitoring is often required to promptly detect any signs of fetal distress and take appropriate actions.