Name of the Procedure:

Fetal Non-Stress Test (NST)

Summary

A Fetal Non-Stress Test is a simple, non-invasive procedure used to monitor a baby's heart rate and overall health during pregnancy. It involves attaching sensors to the mother's abdomen to track the baby's movements and heartbeat.

Purpose

The purpose of the NST is to ensure the baby is getting enough oxygen and to check its heart rate response to movement. This can help detect issues such as fetal distress or hypoxia, allowing for timely intervention to ensure the baby's well-being.

Indications

• Decreased fetal movements
• High-risk pregnancies (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, pre-eclampsia)
• Pregnancy past the due date
• History of pregnancy complications
• Concerns about fetal growth and development

Preparation

• No special preparations are typically needed.
• Continue to take prescribed medications unless advised otherwise.
• Eat a meal before the test to encourage fetal activity.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will lie down or sit in a comfortable position.
2. Two belts with sensors are placed around the mother's abdomen: one to measure the baby's heart rate and the other to detect contractions or fetal movements.
3. The patient may be asked to press a button each time she feels the baby move.
4. The test usually lasts 20-40 minutes, during which heart rate data is recorded and analyzed.

No anesthesia or sedation is required. The equipment used includes Doppler ultrasound for heart rate detection and a tocodynamometer for measuring uterine activity.

Duration

Typically takes 20-40 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, antenatal care unit, or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Obstetrician or midwife
• Trained nurse or ultrasound technician

Risks and Complications

• The procedure is generally safe and non-invasive.
• No significant risks or complications are associated with the NST.

Benefits

• Immediate information about the baby's health and well-being.
• Non-invasive with no risks to mother or baby.
• Helps in timely decision-making for further tests or interventions.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed as it is a non-invasive procedure.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the test.

Alternatives

• Biophysical Profile (BPP): combines an NST with an ultrasound to provide more comprehensive fetal health data.
• Contraction Stress Test (CST): evaluates the baby's heart rate response to uterine contractions.
• Pros and cons depend on specific clinical situations and should be discussed with healthcare providers.

Patient Experience

• The patient might feel mild discomfort from the belts around the abdomen.
• No pain is typically involved, and the patient remains fully conscious.
• Comfort measures, such as pillows or adjusting seating position, are provided to enhance the patient's comfort during the procedure.