Antepartum fetal assessment. A nurse-midwifery perspective

This article provides an in-depth review of the most current antepartum fetal assessment techniques. Included in this review are both low- and high-technology methods, such as fetal movement counting, nonstress tests, vibroacoustic stimulation, auscultated acceleration tests, contraction stress tests, amniotic fluid index, biophysical profiles, and Doppler velocimetry. The interpretation of antepartum testing using screening test validity concepts is addressed, as is the current and emerging role of the nurse-midwife in fetal assessment. By integrating content on maternal and fetal physiology, including a critical review of current literature, together with relevant clinical information, including protocols, this article provides a useful guide to fetal assessment for nurse-midwives.