Ace the 2025 Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Exam – Deliver Success with Confidence!

The presence of a change in fetal movements reported by the mother is a critical indicator that a fetus may require antepartum testing. Fetal movement is a key sign of fetal well-being, and any significant reduction or change in the pattern of these movements can signal the need for further evaluation. For example, decreased movements may indicate potential issues like fetal distress or compromised blood flow, necessitating closer monitoring to ensure the fetus's safety and health.

In the context of antepartum testing, it’s essential to identify any concerns that could affect the fetus before labor begins. Monitoring fetal movements allows healthcare providers to assess the condition of the fetus and decide if additional tests, such as non-stress tests or biophysical profiles, are necessary to ensure the fetus is thriving.

Other options, while they may have relevance in maternal or fetal health, do not specifically indicate the immediate need for antepartum testing. Unexplained weight gain in the mother does not directly indicate fetal distress. Maternal hypertension can be a risk factor for complications, but not all cases require immediate testing of the fetus. Lastly, maternal history of allergies does not pertain to fetal well-being in the same way as fetal movements do. Hence, a change in fetal movements is the most direct measure indicating that