Care of a client with contraction stress test

Purpose :
contraction stress test measures the fetal heart rate after the
mother's uterus is stimulated to contract. This test is done to
make sure the fetus can handle contractions during labor and
get the oxygen needed from the placenta.

A. Nipple Stimulated Contraction Stress test

1. Verify the doctor's order

To ensure that the patient gives you the best chance to heal
correctly.

2. Assess the client, check the vital signs

prevent a misdiagnosis, and it is useful in detecting or
monitoring medical problems.

3. Assess the fetal well being, fetal movement that can be felt
by the mother and check fetal heart tone
- to identify fetuses at risk for in utero death or asphyxia-
mediated damage and affect expeditious and safe delivery.

4. Explain the procedure to the client / family

In order for the patient to make informed

5. Secure consent of the client /family

Without this information, you are not able to make a fully
informed choice and give valid consent for treatment.

6. Wash hands
one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of
germs.

7. Place the client into a comfortable position, attach a uterine

monitor
This is because positioning can be used for many different
purposes such as pressure or pain relief, to provide safety and
comfort, and for examination or personal hygiene procedures.
8. Provide privacy of the client
Ensuring privacy can promote more effective communication
between physician and patient, which is essential for quality
of care, enhanced autonomy, and preventing economic harm,
embarrassment, and discrimination

9. Using her thumb and index fingers, the woman rolls

one or both nipples to stimulate uterine activity and check
effect on FHR, uterine contraction are recorded by the uterine
monitor. Three contractions with a duration of 40 seconds or
longer must be present in a 10 minutes' window before the
test can be interpreted.

Stimulating uterine activity by rolling the woman's nipples and

monitoring the effect on fetal heart rate (FHR) helps assess
the uteroplacental function and fetal response to stimulation,
aiding in the evaluation of fetal well-being.

10. Refer the findings to the Physician.

Referring the findings to the physician enables timely medical
review and intervention based on the monitored parameters,
ensuring appropriate management of any identified issues.

11. Continue monitoring the client

Continuing to monitor the client ensures ongoing assessment
of maternal and fetal status, allowing for prompt intervention
in case of any changes or complications.