More questions

More questions ( 14 Questions)

A nurse is using vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS) to stimulate fetal movement during a nonstress test (NST). 

What action should the nurse take when applying VAS?



Correct Answer: A

Place the device over the fetal back for 3 seconds. This is because vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS) is the application of a vibratory sound stimulus to the abdomen of a pregnant woman to induce fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations. The presence of FHR accelerations reliably predicts the absence of fetal metabolic acidemia. VAS is typically used during a nonstress test (NST) to assess fetal well-being. The device should be placed over the fetal back for 3 seconds, as this is the optimal duration and location to elicit a fetal response.

Choice B is wrong because holding the device firmly against the maternal abdomen for 10 seconds may be too long and too strong for the fetus, and may cause discomfort or distress.

Choice C is wrong because moving the device around the maternal abdomen until fetal movement is detected may not be effective or efficient, as the device may not reach the optimal location or duration to stimulate the fetus.

Choice D is wrong because applying the device intermittently over the fundus for 15 seconds may not target the fetal auditory system, which is located near the fetal back, and may also be too long and too strong for the fetus.

Normal ranges for FHR are between 110 and 160 beats per minute, and FHR accelerations are defined as an increase of at least 15 beats per minute above baseline for at least 15 seconds.




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