Final answer:
To diagnose and assess IUGR in a pregnancy, tests such as Doppler ultrasound, detailed ultrasound, non-stress tests, and biophysical profiles are ordered, and in some cases, invasive procedures like cordocentesis may be used to investigate further.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a pregnancy complicated by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), several tests are typically ordered to evaluate the cause and severity of the condition. These may include Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in the umbilical artery and other fetal vessels, a detailed ultrasound to evaluate fetal anatomy and growth patterns, non-stress tests (NST) to monitor fetal heart rate, a biophysical profile (BPP) which combines the NST with an ultrasound to check on fetal movements and amniotic fluid levels, and occasionally, more invasive procedures like fetal blood sampling through cordocentesis to check for infections or genetic conditions. Placental insufficiency is the leading cause of IUGR, and these tests can help to determine the degree of insufficiency and guide management for the rest of the pregnancy.