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

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

A Woman Who Is 36 Weeks Pregnant Asks the Nurse