What is a significant limitation of external fetal monitoring?

The significant limitation of external fetal monitoring is the need for constant repositioning. This method relies on transducers placed on the mother's abdomen to track the fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. Since maternal movement or changes in fetal position can affect the accuracy of the readings, healthcare providers often have to adjust the transducers frequently to maintain optimal contact with the skin. This constant repositioning can be challenging, particularly during labor, as it may interrupt the mother's comfort and the continuous monitoring of the fetus.

The other options represent either characteristics that do not accurately reflect the limitations of external fetal monitoring or are not central to its operational challenges. For instance, while external monitoring does use only non-invasive techniques, this characteristic is not a limitation, but rather a benefit. The ability to use the device outside of the delivery room is also not an inherent limitation, as it can be utilized in various clinical settings. Lastly, external fetal monitoring can indeed collect continuous data, making options related to its functionality and capabilities less relevant in this context. Hence, the need for constant repositioning stands out as the primary limitation in the practical application of external fetal monitoring.