Antepartum classification: non-stress test

Normal NST Atypical NST Abnormal Tracing

Parameter (Previously (Previously “Non- (Previously “Non-
“Reactive”) reactive”) reassuring”)
Baseline 110 – 160 bpm 100-110 bpm Bradycardia < 100 bpm
> 160 bpm < 30 min. Tachycardia > 160 for > 30 min.
Rising baseline Erratic baseline
Variability 6-25 bpm (moderate) ≤ 5 (absent or minimal) ≤ 5 bpm for ≥ 80 min.
≤ 5 (absent or minimal) for 40-80 min. ≥ 25 bpm > 10 min.
for < 40 min. Sinusoidal
Accelerations ≥ 2 accelerations with ≥ 2 accelerations with ≥ 2 accelerations with acme of
Term Fetus acme of ≥ 15 bpm, acme of ≥ 15 bpm, ≥ 15 bpm, lasting 15 sec. in >
lasting 15 sec. in < 40 lasting 15 sec. in 40 – 80 min.
min. of testing 80 min.
Preterm Fetus ≥ 2 accelerations with ≤ 2 accelerations of ≥ ≤ 2 accelerations of ≥ 10 bpm,
(< 32 weeks) acme of ≥ 10 bpm, 10 bpm, lasting 10 sec. lasting 10 sec. in > 80 min.
lasting 10 sec. in < 40 in 40-80 min.
min. of testing
Decelerations None or occasional Variable decelerations Variable decelerations > 60 sec.
variable < 30 sec. 30-60 sec. duration. duration
Late deceleration(s)
ACTION FURTHER ASSESSMENT FURTHER ASSESSMENT URGENT ACTION REQUIRED
OPTIONAL REQUIRED An overall assessment of the
based on total clinical situation and further
picture investigation with U/S or BPP is
required. Some situations will
require delivery.