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The effect of different positions during non-stress test on maternal hemodynamic parameters, satisfaction, and fetal
Heba A Ibrahim1,2, Wafaa T Elgzar1,3, Elham A R Saied2
1Maternity and Childhood Nursing Department, Nursing College, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Maternal position is one of the most important factors to be considered during Non-Stress Test (NST). It should be a part of practice guidelines, where the appropriate maternal position reduces test-related errors and false-positive results. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different maternal positions during NST on maternal hemodynamic parameters, satisfaction, and fetal Cardiotocographic (CTG) pattern. A quasi-experimental research design was conducted at NST clinic, outpatient department/ Maternal and Children hospital at Najran city, Saudi Arabia. The study comprised a convenience sample of 118 low-risk pregnant women in their third trimester of pregnancy. Data was collected from January to June 2020. All women were assessed in the three different positions; supine, left lateral, and semi-fowler position concerning CTG pattern, maternal hemodynamic parameters, and satisfaction. The study results indicated a higher Fetal Heart Rate (FHR), increased accelerations, and fetal movement in the left lateral position, followed by a semi-fowler position compared to the supine position with statistically significant differences. No statistically significant differences (P>0.05) were observed regarding FHR variability and NST reactivity in the three positions. In addition, there were statistically significant differences (P <0.05) between the different maternal positions regarding maternal heart rate, systolic Blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, and maternal satisfaction. The current study concluded that left lateral and semi- fowler positions were associated with a more favorable CTG pattern, maternal hemodynamic parameters, and satisfaction than the supine position. Left lateral and semi-fowler positions during the NST test should be standardized to reduce practical variations among health care providers, which, in turn, may reduce the need for unnecessary, expensive, and even hazardous interventions.
Maternal position is one of the most important factors to be considered during Non-Stress Test (NST). It should be a part of practice guidelines, where the appropriate maternal position reduces test-related errors and false-positive results. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different maternal positions during NST on maternal hemodynamic parameters, satisfaction, and fetal Cardiotocographic (CTG) pattern. A quasi-experimental research design was conducted at NST clinic, outpatient department/ Maternal and Children hospital at Najran city, Saudi Arabia. The study comprised a convenience sample of 118 low-risk pregnant women in their third trimester of pregnancy. Data was collected from January to June 2020. All women were assessed in the three different positions; supine, left lateral, and semi-fowler position concerning CTG pattern, maternal hemodynamic parameters, and satisfaction. The study results indicated a higher Fetal Heart Rate (FHR), increased accelerations, and fetal movement in the left lateral position, followed by a semi-fowler position compared to the supine position with statistically significant differences. No statistically significant differences (P>0.05) were observed regarding FHR variability and NST reactivity in the three positions. In addition, there were statistically significant differences (P <0.05) between the different maternal positions regarding maternal heart rate, systolic Blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, and maternal satisfaction. The current study concluded that left lateral and semi- fowler positions were associated with a more favorable CTG pattern, maternal hemodynamic parameters, and satisfaction than the supine position. Left lateral and semi-fowler positions during the NST test should be standardized to reduce practical variations among health care providers, which, in turn, may reduce the need for unnecessary, expensive, and even hazardous interventions.
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Exercise Stress Test
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.

