Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

A positive contraction stress test (CST) typically indicates that the fetus may need immediate delivery. This test assesses the fetal heart rate response to uterine contractions, which can be induced by oxytocin or through nipple stimulation. A positive result occurs when there is a recurrent pattern of late decelerations in the fetal heart rate during contractions, suggesting that the fetus may not be handling the stress of labor well. This can indicate potential fetal distress, warranting further evaluation and possibly an expedited delivery to ensure the well-being of the fetus.

In contrast, the other choices suggest outcomes that do not align with the implications of a positive CST. For instance, while a positive CST is a concerning result, it does not indicate that the fetus is likely to survive labor without intervention. Similarly, a positive result does not allow for a conclusion that no additional monitoring is needed, nor does it imply that the mother can safely go home, as closer monitoring and potentially urgent delivery may be necessary.