To assess fetal well-being in the later stages of pregnancy

To detect central nervous system depression in the fetus

Explain the procedure and its purpose to the patient.

Inform her that she’ll be placed in the left lateral tilt position to prevent maternal hypotension and that conductive gel will be applied to her lower abdomen.

Inform the patient that the gel will be warmed.

Instruct the patient to drink fluids and avoid urination before the test to ensure a full bladder.

Reassure the patient that the test won’t harm the fetus.

Position the patient on the examination table in the left lateral tilt position.

Coat the lower abdomen with a water-soluble conductive gel.

As the transducer crystal is guided over the area, images are observed on the scope and photographed.

The fetus and surrounding structures are visualized.

Four to six variables are assessed. (See Scoring the biophysical profile, page 138.)