Nonstress test


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Nonstress test


A nonstress test determines the response of the fetal heart rate to fetal movements.

During a nonstress test, an external monitor is placed around the mother's abdomen to record the fetal heart rate. This is called “running a strip.” Each time the fetus moves, the movement is noted on the recording chart. Any changes in heart rate during movements are also noted.

If the fetus is asleep, the mother may be asked to press on her abdomen or make a loud noise to awake the fetus.

Credits


Author Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated June 28, 2008

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Last updated: June 28, 2008
Author: Sandy Jocoy, RN
Reviewed By: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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