Question

The antepartum RN performs an NST as part of the BPP. The nurse recognizes which FHR changes indicate a reactive NST?

a) Variability and accelerations
b) Decelerations only
c) Absence of variability
d) No accelerations

Answer 1

In a Non-Stress Test (NST), a reactive result is indicated by the presence of Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) accelerations with normal variability, meaning at least two FHR accelerations of at least 15 bpm for at least 15 seconds over a 20-minute period.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to the interpretation of a Non-Stress Test (NST) as part of a Biophysical Profile (BPP) in the antepartum care setting. A nurse or other healthcare provider would recognize Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) accelerations with normal variability as the indicators of a reactive NST. Specifically, a reactive NST is defined by at least two FHR accelerations of at least 15 beats per minute (bpm) for at least 15 seconds over a 20-minute period. The presence of variability indicates fluctuation in the baseline FHR, which reflects a healthy autonomic nervous system response of the fetus. Decelerations or the absence of variability would be concerning and could indicate fetal distress or other complications.