Fetal wellbeing tests

Question 1

NST procedure

Answer 1

explain test to patient

assess for recent tobacco or substance use

review med hx

assess vital signs/urine dipstick

position semi-fowler’s with lateral tilt

assess FHR baseline and observe for uterine activity

observe for FHR accelerations occurring in a 20 minute period usually associated with fetal movement

notify MD of results of NST and obtain discharge orders, admission, or further testing

Question 2

Reactive NST

Answer 2

2 accelerations of FHR within 20 minutes. Accelerations should be 15 bpm above baseline lasting 15 seconds for infants >32 weeks gestation

2 accelerations of 10bpm above baseline lasting 10 seconds are sufficient for infants less than 32 weeks