NCLEX Question for Contraction Stress Test

Mrs. T is having a contraction stress test (CST) in her last month of pregnancy.  When assessing the fetal monitor strip, the nurse notices that with most of the contractions, the fetal heart rate uniformly slows at mid-contraction and then returns to baseline about 20 seconds after the contraction is over. The nurse would interpret the test result to be

a.  negative: normal

b.  reactive: negative

c.  positive:  abnormal

d.  unsatisfactory

 

Correct Answer: C. The CST subjects the fetus to uterine that compress the arteries supplying the placenta, thus reducing placental blood flow an the flow of oxygen to the fetus; the fetus with minimal metabolic reserve will have late decelerations where the fetal heart rate does not return to the baseline until the contraction ends.  Fetal compromise is therefore suggested.

In a negative normal CST there are no late decelerations occurring with contractions.  This indicates fetal well-being related to uteroplacental function.

A reactive negative result refers to a normal non-stress test in which the fetal heart rate accelerates with fetal movement.

This term refers to a test that cannot be read adequately, for example, inability to stimulate at least three contractions in 10 minutes or unsatisfactory tracings related to positioning or fetal movement.

Posted in: MCN NCLEX