At 32 weeks’ gestation, a client is scheduled for a fetal activity test (nonstress test). She calls the clinic and asks the RN, “How do I prepare for the test I am scheduled for?”

At 32 weeks’ gestation, a client is scheduled for a fetal activity test (nonstress test). She calls the clinic and asks the RN, “How do I prepare for the test I am scheduled for?”

The RN will most likely inform her of the following instructions to help prepare her for the test:
A . “You need to know that an IV is always started before the test.”
B . “You will need to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water to fill your bladder.”
C . “Do not eat any food or drink any liquids before the test is started.”
D . “You will have to remain as still as you possibly can.”

View Answer

Answer: D

Explanation:

(A) An IV line is not started in a nonstress test, because this test is used as an indicator of fetal well-being. This test measures fetal activity and heart rate acceleration.

(B) The bladder does not have to be full prior to this test. It is not a sonogram test where a full bladder enables other structures to be scanned.

(C) It has been proved that eating or drinking liquids prior to the test can assist in increasing fetal activity.

(D) Any maternal activity will interfere with the results of the test.