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Non-Stress Test (NST) in Dhakuria

Non-Stress Test (NST)

Non-Stress Test (NST) in Dhakuria

The prenatal non-stress test, also known as NST, is a procedure for assessing foetal well-being before the commencement of labour. A prenatal non-stress test is an important part of overall antepartum monitoring, with ultrasonography being a component of the biophysical profile. The presence of fetal movements and fetal heart rate acceleration are the most important aspects of the non-stress test. It is a non-invasive test for tracking high-risk pregnancies in which the foetus is clinically assessed to be at risk of hypoxemia or mortality. This exercise discusses the prenatal non-stress test, its indications, therapeutic importance, and the role of your care team in the care of the pregnant patient. Non-stress tests might start around 26 to 28 weeks. The NST becomes reactive around 32 weeks. The Non-Stress Test (NST) in Dhakuria determines whether a foetus is in danger of intrauterine death or newborn problems, which are mainly caused by high-risk pregnancies or suspected foetal hypoxemia. The frequency of use depends on professional judgement, but it is widespread because it is non-invasive and has a low maternal and foetal risk.

FAQ's

A non-stress test is performed during pregnancy. It detects the heart rate of an unborn baby (foetus) in reaction to its movements. A healthy baby's heart rate often rises when he or she moves. The nonstress test is typically performed in the final trimester (weeks 29–40) of pregnancy.
 

The test consists of connecting one belt to the mother's abdomen to assess the foetal heart rate and another to measure contractions. Movement, heart rate, and "reactivity" of heart rate to movement are monitored for 20–30 minutes. If the baby does not move, it does not necessarily mean there is an issue; it could simply be sleeping. A nurse may use a little "buzzer" to rouse the infant for the remainder of the examination.
 

An NST can be done if: 

  • You notice that the baby is not moving as regularly as normal. 

  • Overdue pregnancy.

  • The test can tell you if the baby isn't getting enough oxygen due to placental or umbilical cord issues.

  • It can also detect various sorts of foetal distress. 

The major purpose of the test is to determine the foetus's heart rate in reaction to its own movements. Healthy newborns will have a higher heart rate when moving and a lower heart rate when resting. A non-stress test works on the assumption that enough oxygen is necessary for proper foetal activity and heart rate. When oxygen levels are low, the foetus may not respond properly. Problems with the placenta or umbilical cord are common causes of low oxygen levels.
 

The test may be performed in the hospital's designated prenatal testing area. It could also be done at your doctor's office. The process can differ, but a typical nonstress test could look like this: 

  • You will lie in a comfortable position on an examination table. The provider applies gel to your belly. They wrap a belt over your stomach. 

  • A transducer is mounted to the belt. This is an external fetal heart rate monitor. The clinician places it above the baby's heartbeat. 

  • The baby's heart rate is measured using a monitor and a paper printout. You'll be prompted to press a button on the monitor whenever you feel your baby move.

  • This test typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes. In some situations, the test is performed during a baby's sleep cycle, when there is minimal foetal movement. 

  • A particular sound (acoustic) gadget may be used to rouse up the baby. 

  • It is put against the mother's tummy and sounds like a buzzer. This is not detrimental to the infant. However, it may help a sleeping baby become more active. Your kid may also awaken if you eat or drink.

After the test:

  • The supplier will remove the belt and transducer and clean up the gel. You will be informed of the results of the exam. 

  • The outcomes of the nonstress test could be: 

  • Reactive (Normal): The baby's heart rate increases at least twice during the testing session, which is a sign of good health.

  • Non-Reactive: The baby's heart rate does not change when the baby moves, indicating that further evaluation may be necessary.

  • A nonreactive, nonstress test does not always indicate that your infant has a problem. The baby could simply be asleep or too immature. Nonreactive nonstress tests are prevalent in preterm newborns, particularly before the 28th week. If you require additional prenatal testing, your healthcare professional will let you know.

To make sure the baby is active before a non-stress test, it is usually advised to have a light breakfast or snack. Foods like fruit, yoghurt, a small handful of almonds, sandwiches or salads, and modest sugary treats like a piece of fruit or a glass of juice can all be helpful. 
 

The non-stress test is ineffective for predicting outcomes or determining foetal well-being in patients with acute occurrences such as placental abruption and cord prolapse. Such acute occurrences necessitate immediate clinical examination and foetal delivery if needed. 
 

The usual range for a Non-Stress Test (NST) is characterised by a reactive result, indicating normal foetal well-being. A reactive NST typically shows:

  • Foetal Heart Rate: The baseline heart rate should be between 110 and 160 beats per minute.

  • Heart Rate Increases: The baby's heart rate should increase by at least 15 beats per minute for at least 15 seconds twice or more within 20 minutes for foetuses older than 32 weeks. For foetuses younger than 32 weeks, an increase of at least 10 beats per minute for at least 10 seconds is expected.

This straightforward and painless treatment is performed during pregnancy to assess your baby's health. It's termed a non-stress test because it causes no stress to your child.
 

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