After the fetal activity test (nonstress test) is completed, the RN is looking at the test results on the monitor strip. The RN observes that the fetal heart accelerated 5 beats/min with each fetal movement. The accelerations lasted 15 seconds and occurred 3 times during the 20- minute test.
The RN knows that these test results will be interpreted as:
A . A reactive test
B . A nonreactive test
C . An unsatisfactory test
D . A negative test
Answer: A
Explanation:
(A) A nonstress test that shows at least two accelerations of the fetal heart rate of 15 bpm with fetal activity, lasting 15 seconds over a 20-minute period.
(B) Reactive criteria are not met. The accelerations of the fetal heart rate are not at least 15 bpm and do not last 15 seconds. This could mean fetal well-being is compromised. Usually a contraction stress test is ordered if the nonstress test results are negative.
(C) An unsatisfactory test means the data cannot be interpreted, or there was inadequate fetal activity. If this happens, usually the test is ordered to be done at a later date.
(D) A negative test is a term used to describe the results of a contraction stress test.