Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

The correct choice reflects the maximum duration for which a fetal acoustic stimulator should be applied to the fetus during testing or monitoring. The use of a fetal acoustic stimulator is intended to provide auditory stimulation to the fetus in order to elicit a response, typically assessed through fetal heart rate changes.

Studies and clinical guidelines recommend that the application time be kept short to minimize potential stress or discomfort to the fetus. The optimal and widely accepted maximum duration for this stimulation is approximately 3 seconds. This brief interval is sufficient to activate the fetal startle reflex without leading to prolonged exposure that could be stressful.

Understanding this guideline is crucial for ensuring both effective fetal monitoring and maintaining fetal well-being during the assessment. This standard aligns with best practice protocols in obstetric care, which emphasize both appropriate intervention lengths and the safety of fetal stimuli.