Diagnostics: Nonstress, Biophysical Profile, Contraction Stress - Maternity Nursing

Nov 12, 2024

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Diagnostic Procedures in Pregnancy

Overview

In this lecture, we discuss various diagnostic procedures during pregnancy: Non-Stress Tests (NST), Biophysical Profiles (BPP), and Contraction Stress Tests (CST). These procedures help assess the well-being of the baby inside the womb.

Non-Stress Test (NST)

  • Purpose: Monitors the baby's condition without causing stress to the mother or baby.
  • Procedure:
    • Typically involves placing a tocometer and a fetal heart rate ultrasound transducer/Doppler on the mother.
    • Sometimes mothers are given a button to press when they feel the baby move.
  • Interpretation:
    • Reactive NST: Desired outcome; indicates adequate oxygenation.
      • Baby's heart rate accelerates by 15 beats per minute for at least 15 seconds, twice in 20 minutes.
    • Non-Reactive NST: Requires further testing, not conclusive by itself.
  • Uses: Performed for reasons like reduced fetal movement, advanced maternal age, history of complications, or post-dates.

Biophysical Profile (BPP)

  • Components:
    • Fetal heart rate (based on NST)
    • Fetal breathing movements
    • Gross body movements
    • Fetal tone
    • Amniotic fluid volume
  • Scoring:
    • Each category is scored 0 or 2 points.
    • Total score of 8-10 is normal.
    • Less than 8 suggests fetal hypoxia, may require delivery.

Contraction Stress Test (CST)

  • Purpose: Evaluates how the baby's heart rate responds to contractions.
  • Procedure:
    • Induces contractions via nipple stimulation or administering oxytocin.
    • Monitors for any late decelerations in the fetal heart rate.
  • Interpretation:
    • Negative CST: Desired outcome; no late decelerations.
    • Positive CST: Not desired; indicates potential placental insufficiency.
  • Risks: May induce preterm labor, used less often due to ultrasound availability.

Personal Experience

  • Presenter had NSTs twice weekly due to a genetic condition.
  • Daughter often failed NSTs but was healthy; son passed all NSTs successfully.

Conclusion

  • NSTs and BPPs provide important insights into fetal health.
  • CSTs are less common due to potential risks and availability of other technologies.
  • Recommendation: Like, share, and comment on the video for more content and interaction.
  • Discussion Point: Presenter invites comments on alternative memorization techniques or additional aspects not covered in the video.

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