A nurse is educating a client about a contraction stress test.
Which of the following is correct regarding the contraction stress test?
We are looking for a negative result.
We are looking for three contractions in a 10-minute period with moderate variability and no decelerations.
A negative result indicates fetal well-being.
A positive result indicates fetal growth restriction, lower Apgar scores, and need for cesarean delivery.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While a negative result in a Contraction Stress Test (CST) is desirable, this choice does not fully explain the significance of the result. A negative CST indicates that there are no late decelerations in the fetal heart rate in response to uterine contractions, suggesting that the fetus can handle the stress of labor.
Choice B rationale
This choice describes the criteria for a reactive Nonstress Test (NST), not a Contraction Stress Test (CST). In a CST, the focus is on the fetal heart rate response to contractions, not the number of contractions or variability.
Choice C rationale
A negative result in a CST indicates fetal well-being, meaning that the fetus can tolerate the stress of uterine contractions without showing signs of distress, such as late decelerations in the heart rate. This result suggests that the fetus is likely to handle labor well.
Choice D rationale
A positive result in a CST indicates that the fetus has late decelerations in response to contractions, which can be a sign of fetal distress. This result may suggest fetal growth restriction, lower Apgar scores, and the potential need for cesarean delivery. However, this choice does not fully capture the significance of a positive CST result.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Early decelerations are characterized by a gradual decrease and return to baseline of the fetal heart rate that coincides with the peak of a contraction. They are typically benign and related to fetal head compression.
Choice B rationale
Late decelerations are characterized by a gradual decrease and return to baseline of the fetal heart rate that occurs after the peak of a contraction. They are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency and require prompt intervention to improve fetal oxygenation.
Choice C rationale
Variable decelerations are characterized by an abrupt decrease in fetal heart rate that varies in duration, intensity, and timing relative to contractions. They are often caused by umbilical cord compression and may require interventions to relieve the compression.
Choice D rationale
Prolonged decelerations are characterized by a decrease in fetal heart rate that lasts longer than 2 minutes but less than 10 minutes. They indicate a more severe and sustained disruption in fetal oxygenation and require immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test that involves extracting a small amount of amniotic fluid from the uterus to test for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. It is typically performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. The fluid contains fetal cells and various chemicals produced by the baby, which can be analyzed to detect conditions such as Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and neural tube defects. This test is highly accurate and is often recommended when screening tests like the MSAFP indicate a potential issue.
Choice B rationale
A Nonstress Test (NST) is a non-invasive test that measures the fetal heart rate in response to its movements. It is used to assess fetal well-being, particularly in the third trimester, but it does not provide information about chromosomal abnormalities. The NST is typically used to monitor high-risk pregnancies and to ensure that the fetus is receiving enough oxygen.
Choice C rationale
A Biophysical Profile (BPP) combines an ultrasound with a Nonstress Test to evaluate the fetus’s health. It assesses fetal breathing movements, body movements, muscle tone, amniotic fluid volume, and heart rate reactivity. While it provides a comprehensive assessment of fetal well-being, it does not specifically diagnose chromosomal abnormalities. The BPP is often used in the third trimester to monitor high-risk pregnancies.
Choice D rationale
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is another diagnostic test that can detect chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. It involves taking a small sample of placental tissue (chorionic villi) for analysis. CVS is typically performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy, earlier than amniocentesis. While it provides similar diagnostic information, it is not the test of choice following an abnormal MSAFP result, which is usually conducted later in pregnancy.