Which finding on a fetal heart monitor strip would indicate a negative contraction stress test?

Which finding on a fetal heart monitor strip would indicate a negative contraction stress test?

• A. No late decelerations after any contractions on a strip with three contractions within a 10-minute time frame.
• B. Late decelerations after at least 2 contractions on a strip with three contractions within a 10-minute time frame.
• C. Late decelerations after one contraction on a strip with three contractions within a 10-minute time frame.
• D. An increase in fetal heart rate after three contractions within a 10-minute time frame.

Answer: (A)

A negative contraction stress test indicates that the fetus can tolerate contractions without experiencing any signs of distress, specifically late decelerations in the heart rate following contractions. Finding no late decelerations after any contractions, particularly when there are three contractions present within a 10-minute period, suggests that the fetal heart rate response is reassuring and that adequate placental blood flow is maintained during contractions. This finding indicates that the fetus is likely not experiencing any compromise during labor, making the test negative and a good sign for fetal health. In contrast, late decelerations occurring after contractions would suggest potential fetal distress or inadequate oxygenation, which would point to a positive contraction stress test indicating concern for fetal well-being. An increase in fetal heart rate following contractions is also not indicative of a negative test, as a reassuring heart rate pattern would maintain baseline variability rather than show significant increases.

A negative contraction stress test indicates that the fetus can tolerate contractions without experiencing any signs of distress, specifically late decelerations in the heart rate following contractions. Finding no late decelerations after any contractions, particularly when there are three contractions present within a 10-minute period, suggests that the fetal heart rate response is reassuring and that adequate placental blood flow is maintained during contractions. This finding indicates that the fetus is likely not experiencing any compromise during labor, making the test negative and a good sign for fetal health.

In contrast, late decelerations occurring after contractions would suggest potential fetal distress or inadequate oxygenation, which would point to a positive contraction stress test indicating concern for fetal well-being. An increase in fetal heart rate following contractions is also not indicative of a negative test, as a reassuring heart rate pattern would maintain baseline variability rather than show significant increases.