How should a nurse explain the function of a nonstress test to a pregnant client?

The function of a nonstress test (NST) is to assess fetal heart rate patterns in response to fetal movements, which can provide crucial information about the well-being of the fetus. The statement that describes the use of a round, hard plastic disk called an ultrasound transducer is correct because this device is indeed essential for performing an NST. The ultrasound transducer detects the fetal heart rate and records it, allowing healthcare providers to analyze how the heart rate reacts to fetal movements, which is indicative of fetal health.

This test does not focus solely on the mother’s heart activity or uterine contractions, nor does it measure blood pressure responses during contractions. Instead, it is a non-invasive method specifically aimed at understanding the fetal response in a resting state, which is illustrated by the specific role of the ultrasound transducer in capturing fetal heart activity. The accuracy of this assessment is key in determining the need for further evaluation or interventions in a pregnancy, highlighting the importance of understanding the role of the transducer in the process.