NCC Certified Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM) Practice Exam

For a reactive non-stress test (NST) in a term fetus, what is required?

1. At least 1 access of 10x10 in 20 minutes

2. 2 accesses of 15x15 in 20 minutes

3. Continuous monitoring for 30 minutes

4. 5 successful accesses over an hour

The correct answer is: 2 accesses of 15x15 in 20 minutes

In a reactive non-stress test (NST) for a term fetus, the criteria for reactivity typically include observing specific fetal heart rate accelerations that indicate fetal well-being. The standard requirement is to detect two or more accelerations of at least 15 beats per minute above the baseline, lasting at least 15 seconds within a 20-minute period. The choice indicating two accesses of 15x15 in 20 minutes aligns with these criteria, as it captures the necessary parameters for a reactive NST. This threshold indicates that the fetus is likely healthy and well-oxygenated, demonstrating a responsive heart rate pattern to the usual stimuli such as fetal movements or uterine contractions. The other options do not meet the established criteria for assessing fetal reactivity. For instance, while continuous monitoring for 30 minutes might seem sufficient, it is the specific accelerations that define a reactive NST, not the duration alone. Similarly, the notion of "5 successful accesses over an hour" does not adhere to the standard parameters required for a reactive NST. Therefore, this response accurately reflects the established guidelines necessary for interpreting a reactive NST in a term fetus.