Author Question: A woman who is 36 weeks pregnant asks the nurse to explain the vibroacoustic stimulator (VAS) test. ... (Read 88 times)

karateprodigy · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A woman who is 36 weeks pregnant asks the nurse to explain the vibroacoustic stimulator (VAS) test. Which should the nurse include in the response? (Select all that apply.)

a. The test is invasive.
b. The test uses sound to elicit fetal movements.
c. The test may confirm nonreactive nonstress test results.
d. The test can only be performed if contractions are present.
e. Vibroacoustic stimulation can be repeated at 1-minute intervals up to three times.

Question 2

Transvaginal ultrasonography is often performed during the first trimester. A 6-week-gestation client expresses concerns over the necessity for this test.

The nurse should explain that this diagnostic test may be necessary to determine which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

a. Multifetal gestation
b. Bicornuate uterus
c. Presence and location of pregnancy
d. Amniotic fluid volume
e. Presence of ovarian cysts

kthug · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, C, E
Also referred to as VAS or acoustic stimulation, the vibroacoustic stimulator (similar to an electronic larynx) is applied to the maternal abdomen over the area of the fetal head. Vibration and sound are emitted for up to 3 seconds and may be repeated. A fetus near term responds by increasing the number of gross body movements, which can be easily seen and felt. The procedure can confirm reassuring NST findings and shorten the length of time necessary to obtain NST data. The test is noninvasive and contractions do not need to be present to perform the test.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B, C, E
A bicornuate uterus, multifetal gestation, presence of ovarian cysts, and presence and location of pregnancy can be determined by transvaginal ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy. This procedure is also used for estimating gestational age, confirming fetal viability, identifying fetal abnormalities or chromosomal defects, and identifying the maternal abnormalities mentioned, as well as fibroids. Amniotic fluid volume is assessed during the second and third trimesters. Conventional ultrasound would be used.