Type of test Fluid analysis

Normal findings

 Negative: ≤ 0.05 mcg/mL

Test explanation and related physiology

Fibronectin may help with implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterine lining. Normally, fibronectin cannot be identified in vaginal secretions after 22 weeks of pregnancy. However, concentrations are very high in the amniotic fluid. If fibronectin is identified in vaginal secretions after 24 weeks, the patient is at high risk for preterm delivery. The use of fFN is limited to symptomatic women with contractions whose membranes are intact and who have cervical dilation of less than 3 cm.

Procedure and patient care

Before

* Explain the procedure to the patient.

* Tell the patient that no fasting is required.

• Determine whether the patient has had a cervical examination or intercourse within the past 24 hours. Results may be inaccurate.

 During

 • Note the following procedural steps:

1. The patient is placed in the lithotomy position.

2. A vaginal speculum is inserted to expose the cervix.

3. Vaginal secretions are collected from the posterior vagina and paracervical area using a swab from a kit.

4. The container with appropriate medium is labeled with the patient’s name, age, and estimated date of confinement.

* Tell the patient that no discomfort, except for insertion of the speculum, is associated with this procedure.

• Note that this procedure is performed by a physician or other licensed health care provider in several minutes.

After

* Tell the patient that results will be available the same or next day.

* Educate the patient about the signs of preterm labor.

Abnormal findings

 High risk for preterm premature delivery