A nurse is interpreting the results of a contraction stress test (CST) for a client who is at 38 weeks of gestation.
The nurse notes that there are no late or significant variable decelerations of the fetal heart rate (FHR).
How should the nurse document this finding?
A.
Positive CST
B.
Negative CST
C.
Unsatisfactory CST
D.
Suspicious CST
Answer and Explanation
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is:
B. Negative CST
Explanation:
A Contraction Stress Test (CST) is used to evaluate fetal heart rate (FHR) responses to contractions. The test is considered negative (which is a normal result) when there are no late or significant variable decelerations of the FHR during contractions. A negative CST indicates that the fetus is likely to tolerate labor well, as there is no evidence of uteroplacental insufficiency.
A. Positive CST indicates that there are late decelerations or significant variable decelerations present, which is not the case here.
C. Unsatisfactory CST would be used if the test did not meet the criteria for evaluation due to insufficient or inadequate contractions.
D. Suspicious CST suggests some concerns might be present, such as intermittent decelerations, but not a clear indication of fetal distress.