non-stress test
Antepartum fetal surveillance test that monitors fetal heart rate patterns in response to fetal movement.
Full Definition
A non-stress test (NST) is a common prenatal screening test used to assess fetal well-being by monitoring the fetal heart rate and its response to fetal movement. The test is called 'non-stress' because no stress is placed on the fetus during the procedure. During the test, external monitors are placed on the maternal abdomen to record fetal heart rate and uterine activity. A reactive NST shows appropriate fetal heart rate accelerations with fetal movement, indicating adequate fetal oxygenation. Non-reactive results may require further evaluation with additional testing such as a biophysical profile or contraction stress test.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate 'non-stress test' when used as a compound modifier.
In Context
- "The non-stress test was reactive with two accelerations of 15 beats per minute lasting 15 seconds." — Antepartum testing report