Look at the picture and identify the procedure usually done in a labor room? & x20; - AIIMS Rishikesh & Jodhpur NO - 2017

AIIMS Rishikesh & Jodhpur NO - 2017

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Medium

Appeared in: AIIMS Rishikesh & Jodhpur NO - 2017

Explanation

The image shows a Non-Stress Test (NST), which is a type of electronic fetal monitoring.
This procedure involves two transducers strapped to the mother's abdomen: one to monitor the fetal heart rate (FHR) and another to monitor uterine contractions.
The transducers are connected to a cardiotocograph machine that prints a tracing of the FHR and contractions.
NST is a non-invasive test used to check the baby's health by observing how the heart rate responds to the baby's movements.
A reactive (normal) test is a good indicator of fetal well-being.

Option B: Colour Doppler is a specialized ultrasound that assesses blood flow. The equipment shown is for continuous monitoring of fetal heart rate and contractions, not primarily for blood flow analysis.
Option C: While an ultrasound transducer is used, USG (ultrasonography) is a general term for imaging. The specific procedure shown, involving continuous monitoring of heart rate and contractions, is called a Non-Stress Test (NST).
Option D: Amniocentesis is an invasive procedure that involves inserting a needle into the uterus to collect amniotic fluid for testing. The image clearly shows a non-invasive monitoring setup.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of antepartum fetal surveillance methods as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
NST is a cornerstone of antepartum fetal surveillance, especially in high-risk pregnancies (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, post-term pregnancy) to assess fetal well-being and prevent stillbirth.
Nurses are responsible for correctly placing the transducers, explaining the procedure to the patient, ensuring her comfort (often in a semi-Fowler's or left-lateral position to prevent supine hypotension), and interpreting the tracing.
A non-reactive NST (lacking sufficient accelerations) requires further evaluation, such as a biophysical profile (BPP) or contraction stress test (CST), as it may indicate fetal compromise.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the image provided. Identify the key objects: a pregnant woman, two circular devices (transducers) held by belts on her abdomen, and a machine with a paper printout.
Analyze the function of the equipment. The two separate transducers suggest two different parameters are being monitored simultaneously. The paper printout indicates continuous recording.
Consider the options in the context of a labor room or antepartum testing.
Evaluate 'NST'. This stands for Non-Stress Test, which uses two transducers to monitor fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. This perfectly matches the visual evidence.
Evaluate 'Colour Doppler' and 'USG'. These are types of ultrasound. While one transducer is for ultrasound, the entire setup for continuous monitoring is more specific than a general USG. Colour Doppler focuses on blood flow, which is not the primary purpose here.
Evaluate 'Amniocentesis'. This is an invasive procedure involving a needle, which is clearly not what is depicted in the image.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of antepartum fetal surveillance methods
Stem keywords: identify the procedure, labor room, pregnant woman, monitoring devices
Lead-in keywords: identify
Clinical cues: Image shows two transducers strapped to a pregnant woman's abdomen connected to a monitoring machine.