1

NURSING 222 LECTURE NOTES

TOPIC

PAGE

Lecture 1

Introduction to Maternity Nursing

Lecture 2

Uncomplicated Labor & Delivery

10

Lecture 3

Analgesia & Anesthesia

34

Lecture 4

Nursing in the Normal Puerperium

41

Lecture 5

Nursing Care of the Normal Newborn

53

Lecture 6

High Risk Newborn

69

Lecture 7

Uncomplicated Pregnancy

88

Lecture 8

Fetal Assessment & Pregnancy at Risk

107

Lecture 9

Pregnancy at Risk #2

129

Lecture 10

Complications of Labor & Delivery

140

Lecture 11

Complications of the Puerperium

158

Lecture 12

Disorders of the Female & Male Reproductive

System

168

Lecture 13

Infertility & Genetics

190

CSM M aternity Nursing

Le cture 1

I.

Intro to M aternity Nursing

A.
Role of the Perinatal Nurse
I.

II.

The Re gistere d Nurse

a.

Scope of nursing practice determined by:

-Calif State Nursing Practice Act-BRN
-Community standards
-Policy and Procedure of facility
-JCAHO-Joint Commission on Accreditation
of Healthcare Organizations
-Dept. of Health Services

b.

Nurses held legally responsible for practicing

within scope of practice

c.

Specialty Organization: AWHO NN

-Association of Womens Health,
Obstetrics, and Neonatal Nurses

d.

Orientation Period/Specialization
-Labor and Delivery
-Nursery/Level II Nsy/NICU
-Postpartum/Mother-Baby- since 1990s
-Occasional problems with
comprehensive care-territorial
-Differences in opinions lead to pt
confusion

Exp anding roles in Perinatal Nurses

a.

Nurse Practitioners
-Defined by ANA as: provide
comprehensive health assessments,
determine diagnoses
plan/prescribe treatment
manage healthcare regimens
for the individual, families, and the
community
-In 1960s, shortage of MDs lead to
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2
creation of the RNP
-May provide family care or specialize
-Take part in a certificate program or
Masters Degree program
-Need at certification for third-party
reimbursement
-Requires documentation of continued
education and practice
b.

Clinical Nurse Specialists

-Defined by ANA: Clinical expert who
provides direct pt care services
--health assessments
--health promotion
--preventative interventions
-MSN
-Expertise in planning, supervising, and
delivery of nursing care to families in
childbearing period
-Case managers
-Consultant
-Family and staff educator
-Coordination of delivery of nursing care
to families requiring intensive nursing
support
-Research activities/articles
-May work specifically with high risk pts
-Traditionally worked in hospitals but now
found in nursing homes, schools, home
care settings and hospice.

c.

Certified Nurse Midwife

-Defined by ACNM: independent
management of womens health
care especially R/T pregnancy,
childbirth, PP period, and care of the
newborn
-Graduate from a certificate or MSN
program
-Also provide family planning services,
other gynecological needs, and peri/
postmenopausal care
-One of the oldest professions
-1925-Mary Breckenridge establishes
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3
Frontier Nursing Services-first NurseMidwife to practice in the US
-American College of Nurse Midwives
was incorporated in 1955
-provide care to women with low
incomes, uninsured, and minorities who
dont seek out regular health care
-lower rates of cesarean sections in
facilities where CNMs practice
d.

Certified Nurse Anesthetists

-Defined by AANA: provide
--pre-anesthetic assessment
--develop and implement plan
of care
--perform general, regional, local,
and sedative anesthesia
--manage pts airway/pulmonary
status
--facilitate emergence/recovery from
anesthesia
--provide follow-up evaluation and care
--respond to emergency situations
to asst with ACLS, airway, medications
-Minimum 24 month programs/MSN with
--45 hrs professional aspects
--135 hrs anatomy/physiology/
pathophysiology
--45 hrs chemistry
--90 hrs anesthetic principles
--45 hrs clinical/literature review
--knowledge of at least 450 anesthetics
-80 % practice in an anesthesia care team
-20 % practice independent at solo
providers

e.

Nurse Consultants
-experts in a specific area of nursing
-fee for service
-may act as expert witnesses
-used by corporations R/T developing
products/equipment
-consult to texts, electronic media, and
periodicals
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B.

Le g al and Ethic al Issues

I.

Litigious nature of this sp e cialty

a.

number of malpractice cases involving

childbirth issues
-OB/Gyn cases 2nd only to surgeries

b.

Minimum standard of care:

-care that a reasonable, prudent nurse would
provide in the same or similar circumstances

c.

Predominant theory of Liability-negligence

-4 elements
duty exists
breech of duty-standard of care violated
injury
connection between violation of the
standard and the injury

d.

Malpractice lawsuits are based on the

assumption that the health care provider
failed to meet the professional standard of
care and resulted in injury

e.

Alleged injury to fetus, neonate, or mother

f.

Families expecting a healthy child-bad

outcome means mistake must have been
made

g.

Attribute problem to one or more members

of the health care team
-frequent unavailability of physician
-time frame to communicate may be short

h.

To support expert opinion, need evidence:

-hospital procedures
-nursing policies
-guidelines established by professional
organizations
-state nurse practice acts
-JCAHO

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II.

Inform e d C onsent
a.

Process by which a pt decides to have a

certain medical or surgical procedure
-includes knowing and understanding
what health care treatment is being
undertaken

b.

More than just signing a form

c.

Process by which the physician, nurse, and

possibly other health care professionals convey
to pt the information for them to decide whether
or not to proceed with the course of tx

d.

Without proper consent, provider could be the

subject of a lawsuit alleging assault, battery,
negligence , or a combination of actions

f.

types of consent:
-expressed-oral or written
-implied: nurse states here to draw blood
and the pt extends her arm
--may be used in emergency cases
--when pt continues to take tx without
objection
--during surgery, additional surgery is
indicated

g.

Informed refusal
-can take place at initiation of tx or any time
after start of tx
-refusal is valid even after informed consent is
given
-refusal must be voluntary, uncoerced, and not
made under fraudulent circumstances
-pt must refuse tx with knowledge and
understanding of the refusal
-chart should include signed refusal form by pt
and nursing notes should include time
left, left with whom, risks and
consequences of no further tx, and
who will be notified

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III.

IV.

C ommon Le g al Pitfalls
a.

#1 allegation: birth of neurologically-impaired

infant

b.

reporting/recording errors:
-incomplete initial H & P
-failure to observe & take appropriate action
-failure to communicate changes in a pts
condition in a timely manner
-incomplete and/or inadequate documentation
-failure to use or interpret fetal monitoring
appropriately
-inappropriate pitocin monitoring/usage
-improper sponge/instrument count

c.

almost of OB/Gyns have been sued

-most cases will not go trial but be settled
out of court

d.

30% have had 3 or more law suits

e.

rising costs of liability insurance

f.

demands for accountability created by

expanding the scope of practices

g.

cost containments
-shorter hospital stays
-use of unlicensed asst personnel
-decrease in hospital staff

h.

changes in technology mean needed

continued education: EFM

Stand ards of C are

a.

Standardized procedures/policies

b.

supervision of unlicensed asst. personnel

KNOW your facilitys Scope of Practice

VI.

Ethic al Dile mm as Unique to Perinatal Nursing

a.

fetal research-laws vary by state

b.

fetal surgery
-i.e.: bilateral hydronephrosis, congenital
diaphragmatic hernia
-what if mother refuses tx

c.

abortion-Roe vs. Wade (1973)

-morning-after pill
Plan B-levonorgestrel
-lack of estrogen nausea
-medical abortion
US: mifepristone + misoprostol
France: RU-486

d.

artificial insemination
-AIH-husbands sperm-problem with
mother
-AID-donor sperm
-legal problems-donor relinquishes rights

e.

surrogate childbirth
-buying a child-$$$$
-biological mother may refuse to give up
the newborn

f.

ART-Asst. Reproductive Technology

-IVF-ET
-GIFT, ZIFT

g.

embryonic stem cell research/cord blood

banking

V.

C.

h.

The Neonate
-iatrogenic procedures
prolonged use of ventilators
O2 therapy
-problem: should we save the lives of infants
only to have them lead lives of pain,
disability, and deprivation?
-who decides if major intervention is used
-what kind of care do you give or deny the
infant to allow him to die with dignity
and comfort

i.

The Mother
-use life support in irreversible conditions?

Nursing Role
a.

Communication
-interactions between MDs, CNMs, &
nurses
-was a clear line of communication used
-was the chain of command followed
-was there informed consent
-the better the communication between
nurse and pt, less use of litigation
-earlier discharges home mean more
educational responsibilities for the
RN

b.

Use of EFM
-first introduced at Yale University in 1958
-In last 25 yrs of use, no in rate of CP
-is partially responsible for in C/S rate
-ordinary part of Intrapartum careconstant threat of legal action

Review of C onc e ption /Fetal Developm ent

(Review books)

01/13

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Uncomplicated Labor and Delivery

Lecture 2 (2 days)
I.

Physiological effects of the birth process

A.
Maternal response
1.
CV
a.
During U/C-300-500 ml blood from uterus
to vascular system
b.
Increase in cardiac output
10-15% Stage I
30-50% Stage II
c.
Blood pressure changes
1.
blood flow in the uterine artery
during contractions and is redirected
to the peripheral vessels
2.
peripheral resistance occurs with an
in BP and of pulse
3.
Stage I30 mm Hg systolic
25 mm Hg diastolic
4.
Stage II- BP further
5.
Supine hypotension-risk factors
multifetal, hydramnios, obesity,
dehydration, hypovolemia
d.
WBCs 25-30,000 mm secondary to stress,
trauma
e.
hematopoietic
1.
desire Hgb at least 11 g/dl
Hct 33% or higher
2.
plasma fibrinogen
blood coag
time
clotting factors to protect
against hemorrhage but risk for
thrombophlebitis (inflammation of
vein in conjunction with formation
of a thrombus (blood clot of a vessel
or a cavity in the heart)

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2.

Fluids/electrolytes
a.
Diaphoresis, insensible water loss through
respirations, NPO status, and temp
b.
Voiding may be difficult r/t anesthesia or
Pressure from presenting part- sensation
of a full bladder
c.
Proteinuria- in amino acids may exceed capacity
of renal tubules to absorb
-may be renal damage caused by
vasospasms of tubules

3.

GI
a.
b.

Fluids at tolerated r/t GI motility and

absorption with delay in stomach
emptying
N & V with diarrhea in labor

4.

Respiratory
a.
O2 consumption, in resp. rate
b.
hyperventilation respiratory alkalosis
in pH, hypoxia, hypocapnia ( CO2)
metabolic
c.
2nd Stage-O2 consumption
acidosis uncompensated by resp. alkalosis

5.

Muscular/skeletal
a.
Fatigue of muscles/strain
b.
Separation of pubis symphysis
-May be related to pregnancy or
delivery process
(relaxin-polypeptide hormone-secreted
in corpus luteum during pregnancy-can
relax the symphysis, inhibit uterine
contractions, and softens the cervix)
c.
Breakdown of proteins may lead to
proteinuria-albumnin in the urine

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B.

6.

Neurological
a.
Euphoria-believe it or not!
endorphins- pain threshold and produce
sedation
b.
anxiety
c.
partial to total amnesia in 2nd stage

7.

Integumentary
a.
diaphoresis
b.
temperature-may be R/T to maternal
efforts or infection
c.
exacerbation of pruritusmay be related to cholestasis (arrest of
the flow of bile) in pregnancy

Fetal Response
1.
CV
a.
in fetal heart rate (FHR)
-maternal hydration
N&V
maternal temp
insensible water loss
-maternal position
-medications to mother
-placental issues
post dates-calcifications
smoker/ BP- placental size
velamentous insertion (umbilical
cord attached to the
membrane a short distance
from the placenta
cord compresson
-maternal anxiety

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II.

2.

Pulmonary
a.
thoracic cavity squeezed
-not as much in C/S cases
-precipitous deliveries (swift progression of
2nd stage of labor marked by rapid
descent/expulsion of the fetus)
-may need extra suction
b.
passing of meconium (1st feces of
neonate) may need resuscitation effort

3.

Catecholamines
a.
epinephrine & norepinephrine-active
amines (nitrogen-containing organic
compounds)
-have effect on CV, neuro, metabolic
rate, temp., and smooth muscle
b.
change R/T stress of labor
speed clearance of fluid

Essential Components of the Birth Process

A.
Passageway
1.
maternal pelvis
a.
4 bones
-2 innominate (nameless) bones
-made up of 3 bones
-ilium-iliac crest
-ischium-ischial tuberosity
-spines-shortest diameter
-pubis-symphysis pubis
-the sacrum
-the coccyx
b.
False pelvis-the upper pelvis
-portion above the inlet

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c.

2.

True pelvis
-inlet
-diagonal conjugate-lower border
of symphysis pubis-sacral
promontory
-usually 12.5 cm or greater
-obstetric conjugate- also called
anterior/posterior diameter
-measurement that determines
whether presenting part can
engage superior strait
-usually 1.5-2 cm less than
diagonal
-midpelvis-cavity, midplane
-transverse diameter-interspinous
diameter-10.5 cm
-outlet
-transverse diameter-intertuberous
diameter-> 8 cm

Pelvic shapes
a.
gynecoid-round
-50% of women
-most favorable
-usual mode of birth-vaginal
b.
android-heart shaped
-23% of women
-usual mode of birth-cesarean
possible forceps-difficult
c.
anthropoid-oval shaped
-24% of women
-usual mode of birth-vaginal
spontaneous or asst.
-may lead to OP position
d.
platypelloid-flat shaped
-3% of women
-not favorable for vaginal delivery

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B.

Passenger
1.
Fetal skull
a.
made up of 6 bones
-frontal
-2 parietal
-2 temporal
-occipital
b.
not fused together-allow for molding,
overlapping of bones to pass thru pelvis
c.
sutures-membranes
-frontal
-sagittal
-lambdoidal
-coronal
d.
fontanels-where membranes intersect
-anterior (bregma)-diamond-shaped-2cm
by 3 cm
-closes by 18 months
-posterior-triangle-shaped-1cm by 2 cm
-closes by 8-12 weeks
e.
landmarks
-mentum-chin
-sinciput-brow
-vertex-between anterior/posterior
fontanel
-occiput-beneath the posterior fontanel
2.

Fetal Presentation
a.
fetal part entering the pelvis first
-cephalic (head)-96%
-breech (buttock)-3%
-transverse (shoulder)-1%
b.
factors that influence presentation
-fetal lie
-fetal attitude
-extension/flexion of fetal head

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c.
d.

diagnosed using
-Leopolds maneuvers
-verify with ultrasound
external version-MD attempts to manually
rotate the fetus into a cephalic
presentation
-done in L &D
-ultrasound to check fetal/placental
position
-may use medications to relax uterine
muscle
-frequently uncomfortable for mother

3.

Fetal Lie
a.
relationship of long axis (spine) of fetus
to long axis (spine) of mother
b.
primary lies:
-longitudinal (vertical)-cephalic, breech
-transverse (horizontal or oblique)-shoulder

4.

Fetal Attitude
a.
relationship of fetal parts to one another
b.
general flexion
-back is rounded
-chin flexed onto chest
-thighs flexed on the abdomen
-legs flexed at the knees
-arms crossed over the thorax
-umbilical cord lies between arms/legs
c.
head flexion
-biparietal diameter-9.25 cm
-suboccipitobregmatic-9.5 cm
-occipitofrontal-12 cm
-occipitomental-13.5 cm

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C.

5.

Fetal position
a.
relationship of presenting fetal part to
4 quadrants of maternal pelvis
b.
indicated using a 3-letter abbreviation
-1st letter-location of part in pelvis (R or L)
-2nd letter-presenting part of fetus (O,S,M)
-3rd letter-location of presenting part in
relationship to maternal pelvis (A,P,T)

6.

Station
a.
relationship of presenting fetal part to an
imaginary line at the maternal ischial
spines: 0 station is at the spines
b.
negative stations-higher in the pelvis
c.
positive stations-lower in the pelvis

Powers
1.
Primary Powers
a.
involuntary uterine contractions
-start at fundus-thickened uterine
muscle layer of upper uterine
segment
-upper segment thicker so more active
-lower segment has less muscle
-contractions move down muscle
in waves
-assessed by:
reports from mother
RN palpating fundus
monitor
b.
primarily responsible for dilation of
cx and descent of fetus
-drawing upward of the
musculofibrous components
of the cervix with fetal head compression
lead to dilation (opening)
-full dilation (10 cm) marks the end of

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c.

d.

e.

2.

the first stage of labor

effacement (thinning)
-cx usually 3 cm long, 1 cm thick
-taken up by shortening of uterine
muscle bundles
-usually expressed in %
uterine contractions
-3 phases-increment, acme, decrement
-involuntary, rhythmic, intermittent
-frequency-beginning of one to the
beginning of the next
-regularity-usually start irregular then
becomes more regular as labor
progresses
-duration-start to end of contraction
-intensity-mild, moderate, strong or
strength can be measured with
internal monitor (IUPC) with
resting tone usually 15-25 mm
Fergusons reflex
-presenting fetal part reaches perineal
floor
-mechanical stretching of cervix occurs
-stretch receptors in vagina trigger
exogenous (originating outside an
organ) oxytocin release
-triggers maternal urge to bear down

Secondary Powers
a.
bearing down effort at 10 cm
-contraction of diaphragm and
abdominal muscles while pushing
b.
intraabdominal pressure that
compresses uterus on all sides
c.
usually no effect on dilation-important
R/T expulsion of fetus and placenta
d.
better results when await maternal need

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e.

f.

D.

to bear down rather than start pushing

at 10 cm
debate over how to push
-valsalva-closed glottis, prolonged push
-open glottis pushing
-mini pushes
prolonged pushing efforts can lead to
fetal hypoxia/acidosis and severe
maternal perineal lacerations

Placenta
1.
Structure
a.
formed at implantation
b.
decidua (endometrium during
pregnancy) basalis-with the chorion
(extraembryonic membrane) forms the
placenta
c.
cotyledon-mass of villi on the chorionic
surface of the placenta
-15-20 in number
d.
structure is completed by 12 week
e.
breaks may occur in placental
membrane allowing mixing of maternal
and fetal blood-Rh sensitization
f.
position problems
-previa-implanted in lower uterine
segment-covers internal cx os
-abruptio-separation of placenta from
uterine wall
-accreta-cotyledons invaded uterine
musculature
-increta-invasion into the myometrium
-percreta-invasion to the serosa of the
peritoneum covering of the uterus
can lead to uterine rupture

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g.

2.

umbilical cord insertion problems

-battledore-insertion into the margin of the
placenta-resembles a paddle
-velamentous-attached to membrane a
short distance to placenta

Function
a.
endocrine gland-produces hormones to
maintain pregnancy
-hCG-human chorionic gonadotropin
-basis for pregnancy test
-preserves function of corpus luteum
-ensures continued supply of
estrogen/progesterone
-reaches max level at 50-70 days
-hPL-human placental lactogen
-similar to growth hormone
-stimulates maternal metabolism
- resistance to insulin and facilitates
glucose transport across
placental membrane (GDM?)
-estrogen (estriol)
-stimulates uterine growth
-stimulates uteroplacental blood
flow
-progesterone
-maintains endometrium
-decreases contractility of uterus
-stimulates development of breast
alveoli and maternal
metabolism
metabolic functions
b.
-respiration
-nutrition
-excretion
-storage

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c.

E.

factors which could effect function

-smoking
-drug use
-poor nutrition
- BP
-maternal position
-infection
-trauma

Psyche
1.
Factors influencing womans reaction to
physical/emotional crisis of labor
a.
accomplishment of tasks of pregnancy
b.
usual coping mechanisms in response to
stress
c.
support system-esp. partners
commitment
d.
preparation for childbirth
e.
cultural/religious influences
f.
social/economic responsibility
2.

Factors associated with birth experience

a.
motivation for pregnancy
b.
attendance at childbirth classes
c.
sense of competency/mastery
d.
self-confidence/self-esteem
e.
+ relationship with partner
f.
maintaining control during labor
g.
support during the delivery
h.
not being left alone
i.
trust in staff-medical and nursing
j.
pain management
k.
length of labor process-exhaustion,
anxiety, for medical interventions

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F.
III.

Position (maternal)-See book

Labor Physiology
A.
Labor Onset Theories
1.
Oxytocin Stimulation Theory
a.
stretching of cervical os causes in
exogenous oxytocin
b.
produced by posterior pituitary
c.
oxytocin stimulates smooth uterine muscle
contractions
d.
response to oxytocin as nears term
2.

Estrogen Stimulation Theory

a.
estrogen stimulates smooth uterine muscle
to contract
b.
as approaches term, estrogen,
progesterone (prog. keeps estrogen in
check)
c.
promotes prostaglandin synthesis (also
stimulates muscle)

3.

Progesterone Withdrawal Theory

a.
usually relaxes muscle
b.
at term- in effectiveness

4.

Fetal Cortisol Theory

a.
at term, fetus produces more cortisol
b.
cortisol-(adrenocorticcal hormone)
-slows production of progesterone
-stimulates prostaglandin precursors

5.

Uterine Distention Theory

a.
stretching uterine muscles causes
irritability leading to contractions
b.
stimulates production of prostaglandins

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6.

B.

Prostaglandins
a.
stimulate smooth muscle to contract
b.
can have production stimulated by
various methods
- synthesis of PGE2 in amnion
c.
research varies whether concentration
of prostaglandins in amniotic fluid and
maternal blood just before labor onset

Signs of Labor
1.
Braxton-Hicks contractions
a.
4-6 weeks before onset of labor
b.
uterine muscle workout before labor
c.
may be strong and frequent but usually
are irregular in pattern
2.

Lightening
a.
fetal descent into the true pelvis
b.
2-3 weeks in primigravidas
closer to onset of labor in multiparas
c.
easier to breathe, need to void

3.

Cervical and vaginal changes

a.
cervix ripens (softens) and may begin to
dilate and efface
b.
vaginal mucus with mucus plug being
released 1hr, 1day, or even 1 week before
start of labor
c.
occasionally bloody show noted with
dark brown or light pink-tinged mucus
noted

4.

Persistent low back ache

a.
R/T relaxation of pelvic joint and descent
of fetus
b.
change of position, warm packs, and
warm showers/baths help

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15

C.

5.

Weight Loss
a.
R/T GI upset with N & V and diarrhea
b.
usually starts 1-2 days before onset

6.

Nesting
a.
have a burst of energy
b.
have a need to get everything in order
for arrival of baby

True vs. False Labor

True
False
Uterine contractions
regular
irregular
close together

vary

stronger

milder

with walking

D.

with walking

felt in low back then

radiates to abdomen

felt in back or pelvis

not stopped by bath

or fluid

with relaxation
techniques

Cervix
softens, effaces, dilates

no significant changes

Fetus
starts descent into pelvis

no change in position

Effacement, dilation, and station

1.
Effacement
a.
thinning of cervix (shortening from usual
length of 2-3 cm)
b.
documented either in %s or cms

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16

E.

2.

Dilatation
a.
opening of cervical os from closed to
10 cm
b.
due to retraction of cervix into the lower
uterine segment R/T uterine contractions
and pressure from amniotic sac and fetus
c.
both dilation and effacement are
measured by fingertip palpation or visual
inspection with sterile speculum

3.

Station
a.
using imaginary line at ischial spines,
note location of presenting fetal part
b.
documented from 4 to +4
c.
ballottable-when presenting part is
floating in and out of the pelvis

Stages and Phases of Labor

1.
Prodromal phase
a.
strong regular contractions without
cervical change
b.
leads to exhaustion R/t inability to sleep
c.
may need oral/IM medication for rest
2.

Stage 1 (0-10 cm)-has 3 phases

a.
Early/Latent phase-0-3 cm, 50-90%, -3to -1
-able to walk and talk
-able to eat light meals
-may be home for most of this phase
-involves more cx effacement and less
change in fetal position
-U/Cs may be 2-10 minutes apart
-U/Cs mild by palpation
-lasts an average 8 hours for primips
-multiparas may have cx dilate to 3 cm
days prior to onset of labor

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b.

c.

-ROM may occur during this time

Active phase-4cm-7cm, 80-100%, -2 to 0
-U/Cs every 3-5 minutes, moderate by
palpation
-U/Cs last approx 60 sec
-may start to have nausea/vomiting
-may ask for enema if impacted to
speed descent of fetus
-may ask for pain medications
-provider may decide to AROM to help
speed labor
-expect cx to change 1cm every 1-1.5 hrs
Transition phase-8-10 cm, 100%, -1 to +1
-U/Cs every 1-3 minutes with intensity
-U/Cs last 45-90 sec long
-using breathing techniques not to push
too early
-may ask for more pain medication
-shortest phase-usually 15 min-3 hours with
delays R/T medications/infections

3.

Stage 2-10 cm (pushing) to delivery of neonate

a.
nulliparas-2 hours on average-no epid.
3-4 hours with epidural
b.
multiparas-15 min-1 hour without epid.
1-2 hours with epidural

4.

Stage 3-birth of neonate to expulsion of

Placenta
a.
usually lasts 20 minutes to 1 hour
b.
if retained, MD will need to manually
remove-consider pain meds for mom

5.

Stage 4-Recovery
a.
mom-1-4 hours
b.
baby-6 hours

27

18

F.

Mechanisms of Labor (Cardinal Movements)

1.
Engagement and Descent-occurs r/t:
a.
pressure of amniotic fluid
b.
uterine pressure on the breech
c.
contractions of abdominal muscles
d.
extension/straightening of fetus
2.

Flexion
a.
natural attitude of fetus
b.
fetal head flexes as it meets
resistance

3.

Internal Rotation
a.
to go thru transverse diameter
b.
rotates to occiput anterior

4.

Extension
a.
resistance of pelvic floor with vulva
opening forward and anterior
b.
fetal head begins to crown

5.

External Rotation
a.
shoulders rotate to anteroposterior
b.
fetal head rotates further to one side

6.

Expulsion
a.
anterior shoulder slips under
symphysis pubis
b.
posterior shoulder and body is then
delivered

28

19

G.

Labor Duration
1.
Nulliparas
a.
1st stage-13 hours (1.2 cm/hr)
b.
2nd stage-5 minutes-2 hours
c.
3rd stage-10-20 minutes
2.

IV.

Primi/multiparas
a.
1st stage-7 hours (1.5 cm/hr)
b.
2nd stage-5 minutes to 1 hour
c.
3rd stage-5-20 minutes

Plan of Care
A.
Assessment-Data Collection
1.
prenatal record
a.
assess attendance to PN appts
b.
any complications of pregnancy
c.
any high risk behaviors
d.
abnormal lab/ultrasound reports
1.
blood type/RH factor
2.
VDRL/RPR-syphilis screen
3.
HbsAG-surface antigen
4.
CBC
5.
Rubella immunity
6.
culture for GBS
7.
urinalysis
8.
HIV test
e.
primary language
2.

initial interview
a.
ask why she came in
b.
status of BOW
c.
any U/Cs?
d.
any bleeding?
e.
+ FM recently?
f.
any other symptoms?

29

20

3.

physical exam
a.
maternal vital signs
b.
FHR tracing
c.
palpate strength of U/Cs
d.
assess fetal presentation
e.
assess cervical dilation/effacement

4.

lab reports/ultrasound results

a.
CBC
b.
PIH panel
c.
RBS (sure step or lab draw)
d.
ck fetal lie/AFI with ultrasound

5.

expressed psychosocial and cultural

factors/needs
a.
history of sexual/physical abuse
b.
history of depression/suicide attempts
c.
social support
-family near by
-friends who can pitch in
d.
cultural/religious needs

6.

clinical evaluation of labor status

a.
sign consent forms
b.
CBC and urine test
c.
if ROM, ck nitrazine paper or ferning
d.
Leopolds maneuver
e.
vaginal exam
f.
ultrasound if needed
g.
head to toe assessment
h.
ck for med allergies
i.
ask about classes taken

30

21

B.

Nursing Diagnoses
1.
Anxiety R/T labor and birthing process
a.
orient parents to unit
b.
explain admission protocol
c.
assess womans knowledge,
experiences, and expectations of
labor
d.
discuss progress of labor
e.
involve woman and partner in care
decisions during labor
2.

Pain R/T increasing frequency and intensity of

contractions
a.
assess level of pain
b.
encourage support people to aid in
comfort measures
c.
encourage use of relaxation techniques
d.
explain when and why analgesics may be
used

3.

Risk for altered pattern of urinary elimination R/T

sensory impairment secondary to labor
a.
palpate the bladder superior to symphysis
b.
encourage frequent voiding
c.
assist to BRP or use catheter prn

4.

Risk for fluid volume deficit R/T fluid intake

and blood loss during birth
a.
monitor fluid loss
b.
administer oral/parenteral fluid prn
c.
monitor fundus for firmness
d.
administer medications to aid in
contraction of uterus
e.
possible type and screen/cross match
if transfusion needed

31

22

5.

C.

Impaired gas exchange R/T maternal BP,

compression of umbilical cord
a.
keep mother off her back
b.
maintain adequate hydration
c.
oxygen via mask if O2 below 90%
d.
shut off pitocin
e.
possible need for amnioinfusion

Interventions-Priority Setting
1.
Vital signs
a.
notify provider if BP above 140/90
b.
ck temp q 4 hrs if ROM
2.

Fetal monitoring
a.
assess FHR at least once hourly in
early phases
b.
may need continuous monitoring
c.
consider internal monitoring for poor
tracing, lack of progress, or meconium

3.

Hydration/oxygenation
a.
encourage po fluids or start IV if N & V
b.
ck oxygen saturation if decels noted

4.

Comfort measures
a.
breathing/focal points/distractions
-labor sh a k es are normal
b.
hydrotherapy/massage
c.
active listening R/T maternal behaviors
-0-3 cm: anticipation, excitement
-4-7 cm: seriousness, introspection
-8-10 cm: irritable, fatigue, amnesia
d.
use of support people

32

23

5.

Pain management
a.
showers/warm or cool packs
b.
massage
c.
oral medications
d.
IV or IM medications
e.
Epidurals

6.

2nd stage interventions

a.
room prepped for delivery
-warmer for neonate
-delee suction if meconium present
-possible need for Pedi
-keep up NRP/BLS skills
b.
asst mother with a variety of positions
while pushing
-short pushes 6-7 seconds
-consider open-glottis pushing
-squatting can open the pelvis an
addition inch
c.
assess need for addition oxygen R/T FHR
tracing
d.
assess maternal VS and FHR tracings per
hospital policies
e.
keep Provider aware of pts progress
f.
consider lessening epidural dose if
pushing effort less than adequate
g.
provider should be in LDR before head is
crowning to provide support for perineum
h.
clean perineum if requests by provider
i.
at delivery, asst partner with cutting of
umbilical cord

33

24

7.

3rd and 4th stage interventions

a.
asst provider with lidocaine/suture if
perineal/vaginal repair is needed
-episiotomies: median or mediolateral
-lacerations:
1st degree-skin, superficial
2nd degree-muscles of perineum
3rd degree-to anal sphincter muscle
4th degree-anterior rectal wall
b.
fundal rub post delivery of placenta
-watch for trickle/spurt of blood and
change in uterine shape to herald
expulsion of placenta
c.
observe for need for pitocin/methergine
d.
promote bonding/breastfeeding even
during repair
e.
ice pack to peri/VS q 15 min/pain meds
f.
prepare for possible trip to OR if placenta
is retained ( 1 hr)
g.
immediate newborn care
-dry off fluids, skin to skin, suction mucus
-ck for 3-vessel cord
-ck physical assessment/wt./length
-APGAR score and infant ID tags

V.

Electronic Fetal Monitoring-skills lab

VI.

Related Pharmacology-medication administration cards

01/13

34

Analgesia and Anesthesia

Le cture 3
I.

La bor Pain
A.
Data C olle ction and Assessm ent
1.
Ask patient comfort level and current pain level
-0-10 scale or coping scale
-comfort level is when they can participate in
ADLs without the need of pain meds
2.
Be aware of cultural differences in response to
pain
-Asian populations may not exhibit pain or ask
for pain medications
-Hispanic women may be very stoic until just
before the delivery of the baby
-Middle Eastern groups may be very vocal in
requesting early use of medications for pain
3.
Anxiety and fear of the unknown might
heighten their level of pain
4.
Previous experiences with childbirth or other
painful procedures may lead to higher levels of
concern about pain management needs
5.
Attendance to childbirth classes may aid in the
patients ability to cope through contractions
B.

First Sta g e
1.
Early phase-0-3 cm
a.
nonpharmacological methods
1.
focal points
2.
massage/counterpressure
3.
hydrotherapy/aromatherapy
4.
music
5.
breathing techniques
6.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve
Stimulation unit (TENS)
7.
heat/cold packs
8.
hypnosis
9.
changing positions/walk/rocker

35

b.

2.

3.

C.

pain medications
1.
should be discouraged as they
could slow the labor process
2.
usually orals:
percocet
vicodin/norco
benadryl
acetaminophen
3.
occasionally IM:
morphine with phenergan
Active phase-4-7 cm
a.
may use many of the same
non-medication choices as above
b.
when pain is more intense, usually
requests IV medications for fast
action
-fentanyl
-nubain
-stadol
c.
may also request and receive an epidural
at this stage in labor
Transitional phase-8-10 cm
a.
may request epidural
b.
may want to be out of bed and push on
toilet to relieve backache
c.
encourage position changes if possible
d.
short acting IV narcotics still ok but have
Narcan available for infant resuscitation

Se c ond Sta g e
1.
May continue pushing with epidural pump on if
efforts are affective
2.
May receive local anesthesia for repair of
perineal laceration or episiotomy
3.
If no epidural is in place, may receive a
pudendal block which relieve pain in the
vagina, vulva, and perineal regions

36

D.

II.

A dverse Effe cts of Exc essive Pain

A.
Physiologic al effe cts
1.
Effect on cervical change-more in pain, less
able to relax and let the labor progress
2.
Tensing up against the pain leads to muscle
and ligament strains in other parts of the body
3.
May not keep properly hydrated and nourished
R/T the intensity of the pain
4.
Inability to relax back muscles and do deep
breathing may lead to difficulty placing
epidural catheter
B.

III.

Third Sta g e
1.
If placenta is retained, may receive IV pain
medications or be moved to OR for twilight
sleep
2.
For laceration/episiotomy repairs, use of local
anesthetics or pudendal block (less common)

Psy chologic al effe cts

1.
I cant do it-ineffective pushing due to fear
of pain
2.
inability to make decisions R/T pain
3.
may become hostile to staff/family R/T
inability to cope

Fa ctors Influencing Perc e ption of Disc omfort

A.
Te ens and Old er Primigra vid as
B.
Cultures/Religions
C.
Previous exp erienc es with p ain
D.
Sup port p erson
E.
Pre p aratory classes
F.
Fetal position-i.e.: OP presentation

37

IV.

Pertinent Nursing Dia gnoses

A.
Pain R/T physiologic response to la bor
1.
assess patients knowledge of labor and
relaxation techniques
2.
encourage support people to aid in comfort
measures
3.
teach alternative non-pharmacological
methods of pain relief
4.
assess need to void/defecate
5.
encouraging resting between U/Cs
6.
keep pt. and family notified of labor progress
7.
offer possible choices for pain medications if
all other methods have been unsuccessful
B.

V.

Other possible nursing dia gnoses

1.
Ineffective airway
2.
Fluid volume deficit
3.
Fetal oxygenation
4.
Anxiety R/T pain
5.
etc. (see others in book)

Pharm a c ologic al Pain M ana g e m ent

A.
C onsid erations for the Pre gnant Patient
1.
What medications you give the mom you give
the fetus
2.
Maternal concerns that she wasnt
strong enough to make it thru without
pain meds
3.
Need to taper dosage to the patient
4.
If previous abuser of medications, will pain med
even be effective
5.
Cultural beliefs

38

B.

C.

Analg esics, se d atives, and a djuncts

1.
Sedatives may be given in early labor to aid
With sleep and anxiety but can lead to a
Slowing of the labor progress and noted
respiratory depression in the patient along with
vasomotor depression of both mom and fetus.
2.
Analgesics
a.
can be systemic crossing the blood/brain
barrier as well as the placental barrier
b.
IV is preferred over IM due to rapid onset
but IM medications last longer
c.
narcotic compounds
-Demerol-meperidine
-Sublimaze-fentanyl
-Stadol-butorphanol
-Nubain-nalbuphine
-respiratory depression
-tachy/bradycardia
d.
analgesic potentiators
-usually antiemetics (Phenergan, Vistaril)
-decrease anxiety and apprehension
-helps reduce the amount of narcotic
needed for relief
Anesthetics (Re gional and G eneral)
1.
Local block
a.
usually used on perineal region
b.
1% lidocaine used
c.
injected into skin and subcutaneous
d.
epinephrine may be added to intensify
anesthetic and decrease bleeding
2.
Pudendal block
a.
goal to anesthetize the pudendal nerve
located near the ischial spines
b.
may decrease ability to bear down R/T
lack of sensation
c.
doesnt provide pain relief for manual

39

3.

4.

extraction of placenta or uterine

exploration
Epidural block/PCEA
a.
needs IV bolus before insertion R/T
maternal hypotension due to
vasodilation
b.
done by CRNA or MD
c.
pt. awake for procedure/delivery
d.
pt. sitting up for placement
e.
after insertion, may need frequent
position changes side to side to
keep anesthetic level equal
f.
preferred block T10-S1
g.
need Foley cath in bladder due to
inability to feel when to void
h.
possibility of spinal headache if needle
placement is not correct
i.
saturates pain receptors but not motor
one
j.
may need to use Ephedrine
(a vasopressor) if maternal BP
k.
usually a local anesthetic alone or
mixed with a narcotic (fentanyl, etc.)
l.
may increase labor time and need for
pitocin augmentation
m. antiemetics, antipruritics, and narcotic
antagonists should be handy to treat
possible side effects of epidural
n.
as with any medication, be prepared for
possible severe adverse reactions such
as bronchospasms, sudden in BP,
dyspnea, or convulsions-crash cart should
be available on unit
Spinal block
a.
local anesthetic into the L3, L4, or L5
interspace subarachnoid space

40

b.
c.
d.

e.
e.

5.

medication mixes with CSF-saturates

pain and motor receptors
used for cesarean sections
risk of spinal headache due to leak
of CSF-may need to remain supine post
delivery, IV maintained, and possible
blood patch
IV bolus given prior to procedure R/T
risk of maternal hypotension, CO,
and placental perfusion
maternal BP, pulse, resp. effort, and FHR
are assessed every 5 minutes for the first
15-30 post injection

General anesthesia
a.
while rarely used, may be needed for C/S
if unable to access regional block or in
emergency cases
b.
NPO, IV, oral sodium citrate before start
c.
RN may be asked to give cricoid pressure
to aid anesthesiologist in tube placement
d.
normally recovered in PACU (recovery rm)
so bonding with infant delayed
e.
higher risk of complications vs. regional
blocks-mother unconscious during birth
of infant
f.
as with all anesthesias used during C/S,
wedge should be placed under moms
R hip to displace uterus to the L
g.
besides C/S, general anesthesia may be
needed during manual placenta removal
or D & C

01/13

41

1
Nursing in the Normal Puerperium (the period of 42 days post
childbirth and expulsion of the placenta)
Le cture 4
I.

Physiology of the puerperium

A.
Alterations in the body syste ms as a result of the birth pro c ess
1.
Reproductive system
a.
involution of uterus-return to non-pregnant
state-caused by contractions of uterine
muscles (size of a grapefruit after 3rd stage)
b.
within 12 hours, fundus at U/U
c.
fundus descends 1-2 cm/24 hrs
d.
uterus not palpable after the 9th PP day
e.
in estrogen/progesterone=autolysis
f.
subinvolution-failure of uterus to return to
non-pregnant state-usually involves retained
POC or infection
g.
outer decidua sloughs off as lochia, inner layer
becomes new endometrium
h.
oxytocin released from pituitary gland helps
uterus to contract- with BF
i.
afterbirth pains in multiparas
j.
placental site regeneration complete at 6 wks
k.
change in lochia-rubra-1-3 days-bright red
serosa-3-10 days-pink, brown
alba-10 dys-2 wks-yellow, white
l.
cervix-bruised, soft, swollen-closes by 2 wks
-external os-appears as jagged slit
m.
vagina-returns to prepregnancy state by 6-8 wks
n.
perineum-healing start by 2-3 wks, complete
within 4-6 months
-Red
-Edema
-Ecchymosis
-Drainage
-Approximation
o.
6 months for return of pelvic musculature
2.

Cardiovascular
a.
CO remains elevated for 2 weeks-12 wks before
to prepregnancy values
b.
EBL 300-500 ml-vaginal birth
500-1000ml C/S

42

c.

d.

e.

f.
g.

blood volume increased by:

-elimination of uteroplacental circulation
-loss of placental endocrine function which
removes stimulus for vasodilatation
-mobilization of extravascular water stored
Vital signs:
-Temp- to 380 C/1004 F R/T dehydration
-Pulse- 1st hr-return to pre-preg. 8-10 wks
-Resp- by 8-10 wks
-BP-may have orthostatic hypotension
Hgb/Hct:
-1st 72 hrs- loss of plasma volume compared to
RBCs
- in H & H by day 7
WBCs may to 25-30,000/mm3
Coag factors-hypercoagulable state may lead
to possible thromboembolism

3.

Gastrointestinal
a.
appetite
b.
no BM for 2-4 days post delivery
-encourage ambulation
-hydration
-fiber
-medications, i.e.: stool softeners
c.
tx hemorrhoids-ice packs, tucks, crm
-no pr meds if 3rd-4th degree laceration
d.
Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic floor

4.

Renal
a.
returns to normal function 1 month after birth
-bladder tone returned by 5-7 days
b.
diuresis-from fluid retention, pitocin, etc
c.
excessive vaginal bleeding may be noted if
bladder is allowed to get distended with urine

5.

Musculoskeletal
a.
joints stabilize 6-8 weeks post birth
b.
may have permanent increase in shoe size
c.
may have separation of symphysis pubis or
rectus abdominis

43

6.

Integumentary
a.
chloasma (mask of pregnancy) usually fades
by end of pregnancy
b.
hyperpigmentation of areolae and linea nigra
may continue
c.
may note perfuse diaphoresis post delivery

7.

Endocrine
a.
Expulsion of placenta= in estrogen, cortisol
progesterone, and hPL (hCS)
[human placental lactogen/human chorionic
somatomammotropin]
-reverse diabetogenic effect-lower BS level
b.
if BF- prolactin levels for 6 weeks
if bottle-fed-usually means later ovulation in lactating
women

8.

Psychosocial
a.
parents acceptance of infants needs and
abilities
b.
need to learn cues, understand emotional
states
c.
bonding-proximity, touch, voice, interaction
d.
identify infant as an individual yet part of the
whole family
e.
mutuality-infants behaviors stimulate moms
f.
may feel attracted to alert, responsive infant
and repelled by irritable, disinterested infant
g.
attachment occurs more readily with the
infant whose temperament, social capabilities,
appearance, and sex fit parents expectations
h.
need to assess mother-infant communication
i.
behaviors
-entrainment-moving in time with adult speech
-biorhythmicity-soothed by moms heartbeat
-reciprocity-responds to cues
-synchrony-mutually rewarding
-engrossment-interest in baby by father

44

j.

k.
l.

II.

maternal adjustments
-taking in-first 24 hrs-focus on self and basic need
Dependent, passive
-taking hold-last 10 days to several weeks-focus
on care of baby and competent
mothering-dependent
-letting go-focus on forward movement of
the family unit
PP blues- 70% of women-mood swings, anger,
depression, letdown, fatigue, insomnia,
H/As, weepiness (resolves in 10-14 d a ys)
PP depression-7-30%-more severe syndrome
-depression, feeling of failure overwhelming
guilt, loneliness

Nursing Process
A.
Data c olle ction / Assessm ent
1.
Vital signs
2.
Fundus
a.
ck fundal location, tone, lochia
b.
have pt empty bladder before exam
3.
Bladder
a.
assess for distention
b.
measure first voids until 500 ml (voided out)
c.
catheterize if needed
4.
Perineum
a.
if repair done, assess site for intactness, edema,
hematomas, redness, or drainage (REEDA)
b.
assess for presence of hemorrhoids
5.
Breasts
a.
note if breast are filling-palpate
b.
note any redness, soreness, cracking of
nipples
B.

Nursing Dia gnoses

1.
Risk for fluid volume deficit
2.
Alteration in urinary elimination
3.
Pain
4.
Fatigue
5.
Ineffective breast feeding
6.
Situational low self-esteem
7.
Anxiety due to lack of knowledge base
8.
etc.

45

C.

III.

Interventions
1.
Safety
a.
infant ID bands
b.
orientation to unit
c.
staff picture IDs
d.
move infant in crib
2.
Standard precautions
a.
wash hands before handling baby
b.
change linens
c.
proper hygiene
d.
use of squeeze bottle for peri care
e.
wiping front to back
f.
teach pt about fundal massage
g.
use of peppermint or running water to aid in
voiding to prevent urinary retention
h.
use of ice packs for the first 12 hours post
repair of peri then instruct on use of sitz bath
i.
squeeze buttocks together when sitting or rising
from a chair to help keep repair intact
j.
wear good supportive bra
k.
use lanolin crm to prevent cracking of nipples
l.
warm packs before breast feeding, cool packs
post
m.
walk as soon as possible-helps with gas pains
n.
take pain meds prn
o.
encourage rubella vaccine if non-immune
pt should prevent g etting pre gnant for at le ast
4 we eks post v a c cination
p.
Tdap-Pertussisq.
rhogam given to Rh moms who had Rh+ babies

Early Discharge
A.
C andid ates and criteria
1.
Newborns and Mothers Health Protection Act of 1996
a.
48 hours minimum post vaginal delivery
b.
96 hours minimum post C/S
c.
pt and doctor may agree on earlier D/C
2.
Maternal criteria for early D/C
a.
VSS
b.
voiding
c.
Hgb >10
d.
no bleeding
e.
instructions on self-care

46

3.

IV.

Infant criteria for early D/C

a.
term infant
b.
VSS
c.
normal physical assessment
d.
at least 2 successful feedings
e.
at least 1 void and 1 defecation
f.
no jaundice
g.
circ site ok
h.
newborn blood/hearing screenings done
i.
follow-up in 1 week
j.
maternal/infant teaching cklist completed

Care of the Cesarean Birth Patient

A.
Assessm ent/Interventions
1.
VS every 15 min X 1hour, 30 min X 1 hour, then per
hospital protocol
2.
monitor I & Os-need UO at least 30 ml/hr
3.
assess abdominal dressing for drainage
4.
assess need for pain medication
5.
assess fundal location, tone, and lochia
(still have 3 distinct lochia stages)
6.
ambulate asap
7.
assess for passage of gas-advance diet as tolerated
8.
C & DB-may use inspirometer
B.

Nursing dia gnoses

1.
Fluid volume deficit
2.
Pain
3.
Risk for infection
4.
Risk for injury
5.
Anxiety R/T surgery, fetal well-being
6.
Situational low self-esteem

C.

Possible post-op c omplic ations

1.
CV-hemorrhage, shock, dvt
2.
Pulm-embolus, pnemothorax
3.
GI-paralytic ileus
4.
GU-renal failure, hematuria, UTI, oliguria
5.
Reprod-endometritis, emboli
6.
Skin-wound infection, dehiscence

47

V.

Care of the Lactating Woman

A.
Physiology of La ctation
1.
Female breast has 15-20 lobes containing alveoli
(the milk producing cells)
2.
alveoli ductules lactiferous ducts nipple
3.
estrogen & progesterone post delivery= prolactin
levels which remain above baseline thru duration of
lactation (highest level is at day 10)
4.
Prolactin:
-highest level at day 10
-is produced in response to infants sucking
-promotes milk production by stimulating alveolar cells
B.

Other hormone chang es/reflexes

1.
Oxytocin responsible for let-down reflex
nipple stimulation pituitary produces oxytocin
makes cells around the alveoli contract sends milk to
nipple
2.
Nipple erection reflex
infant cries or rubs against the breast nipple becomes
erect propulsion of milk

C.

Sup ply / d e m and

1.
First milk called colostrum
a.
rich in immunoglobins
b.
higher concentration of protein and minerals to
mature milk but less fat
c.
promotes growth of Lactobacillus bifides in GI
2.
If infant is well nourished, will see 6-8 wet diapers and
3 stools in 24 hours at day 5 of breastfeeding
3.
Incomplete emptying can lead to milk supply
4.
watch for infant growth spurts
-10 days
-3 weeks
-6 weeks
-3 months
-4.5-6 months

D.

M aternal nutrition / c onsid erations

1.
add addition 200-500 calories/dy while breastfeeding
2.
drink 2-3 liters of fluid daily
3.
continue on PN Vitamins and iron as directed

48

8
4.
VI.

VII.

watch for engorgement/plugged milk ducts/

sore nipple/monilial (yeast) infections/mastitis

Care of the Woman/Neonate Formula-fed

A.
Formula typ es
1.
commercial formulas primarily cow-milk based but
soy and other specialty formulas available
2.
may be in powdered, concentrated, or ready to eat
B.

C ommon proble ms
1.
positioning-need to make sure milk covers nipple area
2.
warming-never microwave bottle
3.
propping-dont leave infant unattended while feeding

C.

Nutritional re quire m ents

1.
first day-only give 7.5-15 ml formula at one time
-their eyes are bigger than their stomachs
2.
usually feed every 2-4 hours
3.
some infants swallow air as they feed-burp them!
4.
by 1 week of age, babies will be drinking 700-900 ml
in 24 hours
*bottle fe d b e c ause -returning to work, +HIV, m aste ctomies,
a dopte d infant, m aternal m e dic ations

Contraception Education
A.
C onsid erations for Choosing a Method
1.
resumption of sexual activities should wait 2-3 weeks
to decrease risk from infection
2.
best to use condoms/foam at this time
3.
when discussing contraception with your doctor,
-action
-safety
-effectiveness
-convenience
-availability
-expense
-personal preference
B.

Methods (failure rates liste d within 1st y e ar of use)

1.
Coitus interruptus (withdrawal)
-action-prevents fertilization
-safety-no protection from STIs
-convenience/availability-good
-expense-N/A

49

2.

Fertility awareness methods

-periodic abstinence-no sex 4 days before and 4 days
after ovulation
-rhythm-based on 3-4 cycles-use shortest and longest
-BBT-sl. temp before ovulation (0.050C) then
0.3-0.60C
-cervical mucus-ck for changes-amt. and consistency
-symptothermal-combo of BBT and cervical mucus
-ovulation kits-detect surge in LH that occurs approx.
12-24 hours before ovulation

3.

Barrier methods
a.
sp ermicid es
-action-physical/chemical barrier to sperm
-safety-may provide some protection from STIs
-convenience-needs to placed before act
-availability-good if thought of in advance
-expense-cheap
b.
c ondoms
-action-physical barrier to sperm
-safety-protect against STIs/HIV if used properly
-effectiveness-can failure rate with use
of spermicides
-v a ginal she ath / c ondom
c.
dia phra gm
-action-mechanical barrier to sperm
-safety-see condoms, small amt of cases with
TSS-toxic shock syndrome
-effectiveness-needs to be fitted to womans
anatomy, needs to be used with
spermicide
-convenience-may be placed 6 hours before
intercourse but must be left in for 6 hours
post act, additional spermicide each time
-availability-MD appt
-expense-affordable
d.
c ervic al c a p /spong es
-cervical cap needs fitting
-must ck position of cap before intercourse
-failure rate in parous women-40%
-sponge-moisten with water before insertion
-have spermicide

50

10
-risk of TSS if not removed after 24 hours
4.

Hormones
a.
over 30 different formulations
b.
may have estrogen/progestin or only prog.
c.
may be oral, subdermal implantation, IM,
vaginal
d.
prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation or
prevention of implantation
e.
do not protect against STIs
f.
not recommended for some women
-h/o thromboembolic
-smoker
-h/o estrogen dependent tumors
-h/o CAD
-h/o impaired liver
-over the age of 35
-HTN
g.
mini pill (progestin-only)
-problems with irregular menses
h.
inje cta ble prog estin-De po Provera
-injected q 11-13 weeks-may need appt.
- risk of venous thrombosis
i.
implante d prog estin-Nexplanon
-good for 3 years
-implanted in arm
-no STI protection
j.
Em erg enc y c ontra c e ption
Plan B-levonorg estrel
-needs to used within 72 hours of unprotected
intercourse
-prevents ovulation/implantation
-90% effective
-OTC-must be at least 17 years old to purchase
Ella -non-hormonal
-needs to used within 120 hours
-needs Rx
-90% effective
IUD insertion
-99% effective if inserted within 5-7 days

51

11

5.

Intrauterine Devices
a.
usually T-shaped
b.
loaded with either copper or levonorgestrel
c.
may be used for 5 yr (hormone)-10 yrs (copper)
d.
prevents fertilization
e.
Mirena (hormone IUD)-helps to diminish menses
f.
C op p er T-good choice for women over 35,
smokers, h/o CAD, HTN
g.
not recommended for women with:
-h/o PID
-suspected pregnancy
-teens
-h/o distorted uterine cavity
-h / o multiple p artners

6.

Sterilization
a.
females
- bilateral tubal ligation
-surgical procedure
-expense usually higher than vasectomy
-electrocoagulation, ligation, banded,
crushed, or plugged
-no protection against STIs
-should be considered permanent
-informed consent needed at least 72
hours before procedure
-eSSURE
-done in clinic or OR
-uses water to visualize fallopian tube
meatus
-coil placed and tissue collects on coil
creating a blockage
-HSG performed at 3 months to establish
closure
-back-up BC method used during this
period
b.
males-vasectomies
-done in clinics under local anesthetic
-vas deferens are ligated/cauterized
-takes multiple ejaculations to clear
remaining sperm from vas deferens

52

12

BIRTH CONTROL COMPARISONS

FAILURE
RATES

STD

MECHANISM OF ACTION

USER

method of
birth control

perfect actual prevents prevents

postpone protection continuation
use
use fertilization implantation sex
rates

No Method

85

85

Spermicides

18

29

++++

42

Male Condoms

15

++++

++

53

Female Condoms

21

++++

++

49

Diaphragm

16

++++

57

Cervical FemCap

14

++++

57

16

++++

57

20

32

++++

46

Ovulation Method

22

+++

51

Sympto-Thermal

2.5

16

+++

51

Standard Days
Method

12

+++

Calendar Method

13-20 +++

Lactation (LAM)

0.5

++++

Withdrawal

27

++++

Oral Contraceptives 0.3

+++

68

Ortho Evra Patch

0.3

+++

68

Nuva Ring

0.3

+++

68

Shot (DepoProvera)

0.3

+++

56

Shot (Lunelle)

0.05

+++

59

IUD (ParaGard
Copper)

0.8

0.6

++

++

80

IUD (Mirena)

0.1

0.1

++

++

80

Abstinence

++++

w/o prior pregnancy

Sponge
w/o prior pregnancy

Sponge
w/ prior pregnancy

51
+

++++

43

++++

For added protection against pregnancy, you can use more than one method of
contraception at a time. For example, many clinicians recommend that when using
condoms, spermicides be used as well. If a woman is allergic to spermicides she can use
a natural method and a condom and for extra protection. Any of these combinations will
reduce the predicted failure rate

53

1
Nursing Care of the Normal Newborn
Lecture 5
I.

Transition to extrauterine life

A.
Respiratory changes at birth
1.
Development of the Lungs
a.
while a fetus, resp. tract produces fetal lung
fluid that expands alveoli
b.
as term approaches, fluid starts to move to the
interstitial spaces
c.
shift of fluid helps to pulmonary resistance to
blood flow-present before birth and enhanced
with breathing of air
d.
mature lung produces surfactant-no surfactant
leads to alveoli collapsing with exhalation
-sufficient surfactant by 34-36 weeks
2.

Initiation of respiratory effort

a.
first breathes require greater pressure to open
alveoli
b.
Chemical-carotid and aortic chemoreceptors
respond to changes in blood chemistries:
pH, pO2, pCO2stimulate respiratory ctr.
in medulla
c.
Thermal-skin sensors respond to sudden change
in temperature-impulses that stimulate resp. ctr.
d.
Mechanical-chest compression forces fluid out
into upper airways-expelled with birth, pressure
released, causes air into lungsalso helped with
tactile stimulation, lights, noises

3.

Normal Respiratory Effort

a.
once alveoli opened, surfactant helps to keep
them open
b.
circulatory and lymphatic systems absorb moved
fetal lung fluid
c.
complete absorption of fluid by 24 hrs-delayed
absorption noted in C/S deliveries
d.
after initial tachypnea, resp. rate is usually
between 30-60 breaths/min-may be irregular

4.

Respiratory Distress-reverse of the above

54

B.

II.

Cardiovascular transition
1.
air inflates the lungs
pulmonary vascular resistance
pulmonary artery pressure
in pressure in the R
atrium
pulmonary blood flow to L side of heart
the pressure in the L atrium=functional closing of the
foramen ovale (functionally closed-1-2 hrs,
anatomically closed-30 months
2.

in utero, fetal pO2 is 27 mm HGafter birth, pO2 to

50 mm Hg in the arterial blood constricture of the
ductus arteriosusfunctional closure in 10-24 hrs
-permanent closure in 3-4 weeks

3.

pulmonary blood vessels dilate in response to O2

fetal lung fluid moves into the interstitial spaces
(any O2-ductus dilates, pulmonary vessels constrict)

4.

clamping of the umbilical cord closes the umbilical

arteries, umbilical vein, and ductus venosus which
convert into ligaments-fibrosis within 2 months

Neurological adaptation
A.
Thermoregulation
1.
newborns ability to produce heat is often = to adults
but have a tendency towards rapid heat loss
2.

heat loss from: thin skin, little sub Q fat, blood vessels
close to surface, heat easily transferred from internal
to skin

3.

3x the body surface than adults=4x heat loss

4.

flexed position helps preserve heatproblem with

premies is poor muscle tone leads to less flex

5.

evaporation-heat loss thru wet skin exposed to air

-dry baby immediately at birth

6.

conduction-loss of heat from body surface to cooler

surface in direct contact
-warm blanket, skin-to-skin contact

55

B.

7.

convection-heat transferred to cooler ambient air

-keep out of drafts, wrap in blanket with hat on head

8.

radiation-transfer of heat to cooler object not in

direct contact with infant
-keep cribs away from outer windows

9.

Thermogeneis
a.
Nonshivering thermogenesis (NST)
primarily thru brown fat ( highly vascular fat
found only in infants with abundant supply of
blood vessels/nerve endings, found at neck,
kidneys, adrenals, sternum and intrascapulary
region) heat produced by lipid metabolic
activity
warm baby (preterm infants lack
brown fat)
b.
secondarily thru increased metabolic activity in
liver, brain, and heart
c.
shivering begins when thermal receptors in skin
detect a drop in the skin temp-rare in neonates

10.

cold stressa.
metabolism = need for O2 and glucose
regardless of gestational age or condition
b.
if prolonged-leads to resp. difficulty
c.
O2 consumption diverted from maintaining
brain/heart function to thermogenesis
d.
decreased pulmonary perfusion may lead to an
open ductus arteriosus
e.
hypoglycemia
f.
fatty acids released = metabolic acidosis
g.
fatty acids in blood can interfere with
bilirubin transport = risk for jaundice

Reflexes
1.
Moro (startle)
Usually present for first 3-4 months
2.

Palmar, plantar grasp

Fingers/toes curl around examiners fingers
palmar lessens by 3-4 months
plantar by 8 months

56

C.

3.

Tonic neck
fencing position
complete response gone by 3-4 months

4.

Sucking and rooting

head turns towards stimulus and sucks

Sensory adaptation
1.
Vision
a.
at birth, muscles in eye area are immature
(transient strabismus)
b.
clearest vision within 10-20 inches
c.
sensitive to light
d.
at 5 days old, attracted to black/white patterns
e.
able to see colors at 2 months
f.
tear glands developed by 2-8 weeks
g.
by 6 months, their visual acuity is of adults
h.
prefer patterns to plain surfaces
i.
eye color will not be set until 3-12 months
2.

Hearing
a.
like an adults after draining of amniotic fluid
b.
loud sounds make baby have startle reflex
c.
decrease motor activity in presence of low
frequency sounds such as a heartbeat
d.
hearing loss is a common major abnormality
1-3/1000 normal term infants have bilateral
hearing loss

3.

Touch
a.
responses to touch on all parts of the body
b.
face, hands, soles being most sensitive

4.

Taste
a.
can distinguish tastes
b.
prefer glucose water to plain water

5.

Smell
a.
react to strong odors by turning head away
b.
can differentiate their mothers breast milk by
smell

57

5
III.

Hematological adaptation
A.
Neonatal differences
1.
RBCs and H & H
a.
at birth, levels are higher than adults
-Hgb14-24 g/dl
-Hct44-64% if > 65% = polycythemia
-RBC5.1-5.3/mm3-1st 24-48 hrs of life
(neonatal RBCs have a lower survival rate
compared to adults) physiological anemia
c.
delay of cord clamping shifts plasma to
extravascular spaces with lab results
2.

Leukocytes
a.
WBC 9-30,000 per mm3 is normal at birth
b.
will rise then decline to a level of 11,500
c.
infection not well tolerated in infants with
sepsis usually accompanied by a loss in WBC

3.

Platelets
a.
200,000-300,000/mm3
b.
factors II, VII, IX, and X decreased due to lack
of Vitamin K-not adult level until 9 months

4.

Blood Groups
a.
cord blood sample taken to determine infants
blood group and Rh status
b.
Rh neg moms receive Rhogam if Rh + baby

5.

Blood Volume
a.
80-85 ml/kg
b.
at birth, blood volume approx. 300 ml
c.
preterms have greater blood volume due to
a greater plasma volume, not RBC mass

6.

Heart rate and BP

a.
HR averages at140 beats/min at birth
b.
rises just after birth
c.
full term infants HR between 120-160 bt/min
d.
PMI (point of maximal impulse) left chest
(apical pulse)
e.
of heart murmurs heard at birth disappear by
6 months
f.
BP averages 50-80/35-50 mm Hg

58

6
IV.

Musculoskeletal System
A.
Head and upper body
1.
at birth, more cartilage than bone

B.

2.

face looks small in relationship to skull R/T molding

(overlapping of the skull bones)

3.

fontanelles
a.
anterior closes at 12-18 months
b.
posterior closes at 8-12 weeks
c.
bulging fontanelles mean ICP
d.
sunken fontanelles mean dehydration

4.

craniostenosis-contracted skull due to premature

closure of the cranial sutures-need surgery

5.

Caput succedaneum
a.
edema of the scalp
b.
may cross suture lines
c.
disappears in 1-4 dys

6.

Cephalohematoma
a.
collection of blood between the skull bone and
the periosteum-doesnt cross suture lines
b.
may be spontaneous or due to vacuum or
forceps delivery
c.
resolves in 2-4 weeks
d.
may lead to jaundice

7.

neck/shoulders
a.
shoulder dystocia brachial plexus injury
-fx of scapula or clavicle (clavicle is the most
commonly fx bone during delivery process)
-immobilize in a sling

Extremities
1.
arms
a.
Erbs palsy-injury to brachial plexus = paralysis of
affected arm/shoulder
-flaccid arm with absence Moro on affected side
-immobilize arm but follow exercise regimen

59

7
2.

hands
a.
polydactyl-extra fingers
b.
syndactyl-fused fingers
c.
simian crease found on palms (and soles of
feet) frequently present in children with Downs

3.

hips
a.

c.
d.

can have congenital hip dysplasia-head of the

femur slips out of the acetabulum
Ortolanis/Barlows maneuver-listen/feel for a
click
breech deliveries-higher risk
may need to double or triple diaper

feet
a.
b.

poly/syndactyl
club foot-positional or casted to help rotate

b.

4.

C.

V.

Activity and Muscle Tone

1.
spontaneous, transient motor function
-if flaccid, R/O any birth injuries
2.

transient tremors normal but if persistent, may be

pathological

3.

watch for flexion and extension of all extremities

Gastrointestinal
A.
Mouth/throat
1.
mucous membranes of mouth moist and pink if
adequately hydrated
2.

check for intactness of hard and soft palates

3.

may find Epsteins pearls-retention cysts-small white

areas at gum margins and junction of palates
-if area very hard to touch, question possible tooth
(more common in some cultures)

4.

may note sucking blisters (calluses)

5.

sucking behavior is influenced by neuromuscular

maturity, maternal medications at birth, and type
of initial feeding

60

B.

C.

D.

6.

infant unable to move food from lips to pharynxneed to place nipple deep inside mouth

7.

check for tongue-tied-may need frenulum cut

8.

peristaltic activity of esophagus is uncoordinated at

birth

Stomach
1.
capacity varies from 30-90 ml depending on size of
infant
2.

cardiac sphincter is immature-may have regurg

3.

gastric emptying times vary-effected by type of

of feeding, temperature of food, volume

4.

can decrease regurg by avoiding overfeeding,

burping after eating, and infant positioning

Intestines
1.
no bacteria in intestines at birth
2.

usually hear bowel sounds after 1 hour of life

3.

after birth, air and bacteria enter the orifices

4.

highest bacterial content in lower intestine

5.

normal colon bacteria established in 1st week

which helps synthesize Vit. K, folate, and biotin

Digestive Enzymes
1.
full term newborns capable of swallowing, digesting,
metabolizing, absorbing proteins and simple carbs, and
emulsifying fats
2.

digestive enzymes necessary to digest simple CHO,

proteins, and fats are present by 36-38 weeks

3.

amylase-not produced until 3 months-salivary glands

6 months-pancreas
-unable to convert starch to maltose

61

4.
E.

VI.

lipase-needed for digestion of fat-needs to be

produced by pancreas

Stool patterns
1.
meconium-first stools
a.
filled with amniotic fluid and its constituents,
intestinal mucus (bilirubin), and cells
b.
greenish black-may have occult blood
c.
initially sterile then contains bacteria
d.
usually fully passed in 24 hours
2.

# of stools vary-early feedings = sooner stool

3.

transitional stools-greenish brown yellowish brown

thick thin, watery

4.

milk stools
a.
breastfed-yellow to golden, pasty, and odor like
sour milk
b.
bottlefed-yellow-light brown, firmer, odorous

Hepatic System
A.
Liver function alterations
1.
hepatic system responsible for
a.
maintenance of blood sugar
b.
iron storage
c.
drug metabolism
d.
bilirubin conjugation
e.
coagulation
2.

glucose
a.
1/3 of stores as glycogen in liver
b.
need constant supply for brain
c.
blood glucose levels stabilize at
50-60 mg/dl after delivery
d.
by day 3, 60-70 mg/dl
e.
initiation of feeding assist in stabilizing
newborns glucose levels
f.
newborns increased energy needs in
first 24 hours of life can rapidly deplete
glycogen stores

62

10
g.

h.
i.

risk for hypoglycemia

-LGAs-excess insulin uses up glucose
-SGAs, premies-lack adequate brown fat
and glycogen stores
-traumatic deliveries
-asphyxia
s/s of hypoglycemia
-jitteriness
-respiratory distress
tx of hypoglycemia
-feedings
-IV therapy

3.

iron storage
a.
fetal liver begins storing iron in utero
b.
proportional to total body Hgb content
and gestation age
c.
at birth, have enough iron stored for 4-6 months

4.

coagulation
a.
coag factors synthesized in liver Vit. K
b.
transient blood coagulation deficiency days 2-5
c.
Vit. K injection helps prevent clotting problems
d.
prenatal dilatin/phenobarb abnormal clotting

5.

conjugation of bilirubin
a.
bilirubin-yellow pigment derived from Hgb
released with breakdown of RBCs/myoglobin
b.
Hgb is converted to bilirubin in unconjugated
form (non-excretable form)-potential toxin
c.
unconjugated bilirubin-insoluble, bound to
circulating albumin-can permeate to other
areas (also called indirect bilirubin)
d.
in the liver enzyme glucuronyl transferase
conjugates bilirubin (now called direct bili)
-soluble, excreted from liver cells bile
e.
excreted thru urine and feces
f.
total bili is the sum of both levels of conjugated
and unconjugated bili
g.
factors that bili
-excess production of RBCs
-RBCs life shorter-more breakdown
-liver immature
-poor/delayed feedings-breastfeeding jaundice

63

11
-traumatic delivery
-fatty acids-bind with albumin instead of bili
B.

VII.

Hyperbilirubinemia/physiological jaundice
1.
Occurs 50% in full terms, 80% in premies
2.

incidence is increased in certain nationalities

a.
Asians
b.
Native Americans
c.
Eskimos

3.

neonatal jaundice is considered benign unless

lead to pathological conditions

4.

its physiological jaundice if:

a.
infant is well
b.
jaundice appears after 24 hours and ends by
the end of day 7
c.
serum concentration of unconjugated bili
-less than 12 mg/dl in term baby
-less than 15 mg/dl in premie
d.
almost exclusively unconjugated bili
-direct bili doesnt exceed 1-1.5 mg/dl
e.
daily increments in bili doesnt surpass 5 mg/dl

5.

Feed early to keep serum bili low

6.

if hyperbilirubinemia is not reversed, can lead to

kernicterus-precipitation of bilirubin in neuronal cells
leading to cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and mental
retardation

levels

Genitourinary system
A.
Anatomy
1.
at term, kidneys take up area of the posterior abd.
wall
2.

bladder close to anterior abdominal wall lying in both

the abdomen and the pelvis

3.

at term, have a full complement of functioning

nephrons

64

12

B.

C.

Voiding
1.
bladder capacity- 6-44 mLs at term
2.

frequency of voiding varies from 2-6 times/24 hours

to 5-25 times during the 3rd day

3.

limited capability to concentrate urine

-able to concentrate urine by age 3 months

4.

urine usually straw-colored and almost odorless

5.

may see pink stains from pseudomenses or uric acid

crystals

6.

loss of fluid thru urine, feces, lungs, increased

metabolism, and limited fluid intake can result in
wt. loss of 5-10% normally

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

1.
40% body wt. is extracellular fluids (adults are 20%)
2.

newborns intake and excrete 600-700 ml water

=50% of extracellular fluid

3.

GFR is 30-50% of an adults

4.
5.
D.

GFR =

wastes and nitrogenous in system

Na reabsorption =
and organic acids

levels of Na, phosphates, Cl,

Genitals
1.
Females
a.
in full term girls
-labia majora large and cover labia minora
-may be dark in pigment
-vaginal or hymenal tags are common
-vernix may be present between labia
-may have mucousy discharge
-may have false period (pseudomenses)
b.

in preterm girls

65

13
-clitoris is prominent
-labia majora are small and widely separated
2.

VIII.

Males
a.
testes in scrotum in 90% of males
b.
by year 1, incidence of cryptorchidism is < 1%
c.
tight prepuce (foreskin) is common
d.
smegma may be found under foreskin
-teach boys at 3-4 years old to retract and clean
under foreskin
e.
evaluate for hypo or epispadias
f.
scrotum more deeply pigmented and with deep
rugae in post term infants
g.
circumcision-personal decision
-may reduce UTIs
-may reduce STIs
-may reduce penile CA
-done on 8th day under Jewish faith
-complications-hemorrhage, infection

Integumentary system
A.
Vernix caseosa
1.
white, cheese-like substance

B.

C.

2.

helps the skin retain moisture

3.

present more in premies

Lanugo
1.
fine, downy-like hair
2.

helps keep moisture in skin

3.

seen less in full to post term infants

Desquamation
1.
peeling of the skin
2.

D.

seen more in post date infants

Birthmarks
1.
Mongolian spots
a.
blue-black areas of pigmentation
b.
more common on lower back and buttocks

66

14
c.
d.

IX.

more common in dark skinned nationalities

may fade over months or be permanent

2.

Nevia.
Telangiectatic nevi-Stork bites
-are pink and easily blanched
-appear on upper eyelids, nose, upper lip,
lower occiput bone, and nape of neck
-usually fade between 1-2 years
b.
Nevus vasculosus- Strawberry mark
-may be raised and be bright or dark red
-may last thru childhood
c.
Nevus flammeus- Port-wine stain
-red to purple, nonelevated
-varies in shape, size, and location
-do not blanch nor fade with time
-if neurological problems exist- for Sturge-Weber
syndrome

3.

Erythema toxicum
a.
transient rash also known as flea-bite rash
b.
thought to be a inflammatory response
c.
usually no clinical significance and needs no tx

Immune system
A.
Neonatal considerations
1.
cells that provide infant with immunity are present but
not activated for the first several months of life
2.

for first 3 months of life, passive immunity from mother

3.

immunoglobulins
a.
IgA
-cant cross placenta
-not produced in utero
-colostrum is high in IgA
-start producing about 4 weeks of age
b.
IgG
-can cross placenta
-passive immunity from mom-passed in 3rd
-very active against bacterial toxins
c.
IgM
-produced by fetus in utero
-reach adult levels at 9 months old

67

15
d.
e.
X.

IgA, IgD, and IgE gradually produced

colostrum and breast milk carry immunity

Psychosocial Adaptation
A.
Behavioral states
1.
Infants differ in their activity levels, feeding/sleep
patterns, and responsiveness
2.

1st period of reactivity-first 30 minutes of life

a.
awake and alert
b.
may have irregular resp. rate with crackles
c.
grunting, flaring, retractions
d.
may have periods of apnea
e.
startle easily
f.
decrease in body temp
g.
increase in motor function
h.
may be prolonged in term infants with abnormal
labor or birth traumas

3.

Sleep period-unresponsiveness-2-4 hours

a.
HR 100-120
b.
RR slow-irregular

4.

2nd period of reactivity-4-6 hours

a.
tachycardia, tachypnea
b.
muscle tone, skin color, mucus production
c.
passage of meconium

5.

Sleep/wake states
a.
2 sleep states
-deep sleep
-light sleep-REM
b.
4 wake states
-drowsy
-quiet alert/wide awake
-smile, vocalize, synchrony to voices
-watch & respond to their parents faces
-active alert
-crying

6.

Purposeful behaviors
a.
withdrawal by physical distance
b.
push away with hands/feet
c.
sensitivity by falling asleep

68

16
d.
e.
XI.

get fussy or cry as a signal

term infants better at self-quieting abilities

Care of the Newborn

A.
Assessment
1.
Assess vital signs, assign apgar scores
a.
temp-taken axillary
b.
assess apical pulse
c.
auscultate lungs and suction if moist
2.

Measurements
a.
weight in pounds and grams
b.
Length-usually 18-22 inches
c.
head circumference-usually 33-36 cm

3.

Chart if voiding or passing meconium

4.

Administer medications
a.
erythromycin ointment-OU
b.
Vit. K IM
c.
Hep. B vaccine-IM
d.
HBIG IM-if needed

5.

Assess mothers ability to breast feed

6.

Full head to toes assessment after bonding

7.

Review maternal chart

a.
? infection at time of delivery
b.
medications given to mother
c.
R/O h/o substance abuse

8.

Newborn nutrition
a.
neonates need 110 kcal/kg/dy
b.
at 3 months, 100 kcal/kg/dy
c.
want to see 6-10 wet diapers/dy

9.

Assist with circumcision if requested

a.
minor surgical procedure-sterile tech.
b.
after procedure, infant to mother
c.
teach parents care of circ site

10.

Home care instructions

01/13

69

1
The High Risk Newborn
Le cture 6
I.

Levels of Care for the High Risk Newborn

A.
Assessm ent for ne e d of NICU/tertiary c are c enter
1.
maternal transport with fetus in utero preferred
a.
decreases neonatal morbidity/mortality
b.
mother and infant not separated at birth
2.

B.

II.

if unable to transport before delivery:

a.
notify supervisor of need for transfer team
b.
have emergency personnel to stabilize baby

Transfer/ multidisciplinary a p pro a ch

1.
transfer team consists of:
a.
MDs
b.
RNs
c.
RTs
2.

keep parents undated on infants condition

a.
teach about equipment helping baby
b.
start discharge teaching early

3.

get mother and infant together ASAP

4.

talk about possibility of return to primary center of care

a.
may be frightened to move baby again
b.
may feel insecure with change in staff

The Preterm Neonate

A.
Risk Fa ctors
1.
before 37 weeks, lack sufficient organ maturity
2.

lack adequate reserves of bodily nutrients

3.

low SES of the mother

4.

exposure to environmental dangers, I.E. toxic chemical

5.

pre-existing maternal conditions-heart disease,

diabetes, etc

6.

maternal age and parity

70

B.

7.

medical conditions R/T the pregnancy-GDM, PIH,

infection

8.

obstetrical complications-cord prolapse, abruptio

placenta

Physic al chara cteristics and syste m alterations

1.
Respiratory
a.
at 22 weeks gestation, surfactant begins
production
b.
24-26 weeks-inadequate alveolar size and
surfactant
c.
27-28 weeks-alveoli start to open, surfactant
inadequate
d.
29-30 weeks-growth of alveoli and surfactant
level
e.
34-36 weeks-mature alveoli, surfactant level
adequate
(surfa ctants-surfa c e - a ctive phospholipids
le cithin-incre ases after 24 we eks
sphingomy elin- c onstant a mount
when L/S ratio is 2:1=lungs m ature)
f.
noticeable cyanosis, retractions, grunting,
decreased tissue perfusion
g.
apneic episodes-15-20 cessation of breathing
2.

CV
a.
b.
c.
d.

3.

Thermoregulation
a.
lack glycogen stores in liver-created in 3rd
b.
brown fat
c.
larger body surface
d.
posture of extension
e.
less able to metabolism for heat

4.

GI
a.
b.
c.

pulmonary arteriole musculature

pulmonary vascular resistance
L R
shunting thru ductus arteriosus into lungs
BP, cap refill time, resp. distress

poor gag, suck, swallow-coordinated after

34 weeks
incompetent cardiac sphincter
small stomach capacity

71

3
d.
e.
f.
g.

bile acids, pancreatic lipase = absorption

of nutrients, malabsorption
nutritional loss associated with vomiting/diarrhea
work of sucking = BMR, O2 usage
feeding intolerance

5.

Renal
a.
at 35 weeks, kidneys have limited ability to dilute
or concentrate urine
b.
GFR secondary to renal blood flow
c.
at risk for edema (overhydration) or dehydration
d.
buffering = acidosis
e.
longer to excrete drugs from the system

6.

Hepatic
a.
glycogen stores = hypoglycemia
b.
iron stores
c.
impaired conjugation of bilirubin

7.

Immunologic
a.
dont receive passive immunity
b.
IgG-not until last trimester

8.

Hematologic
a.
increased capillary friability
b.
tendency to bleed
c.
blood loss from frequent lab work
d.
production of RBCs

9.

CNS
a.
high risk of brain hemorrhage from thin, fragile
vessel walls
b.
up to 34 weeks, the germinal matrix lines the
ventricles
c.
birth damage to immature structures
d.
may have been exposed to recurrent anoxic
episodes

10.

Risk of infection
a.
thin, fragile skin
b.
friable blood vessels
c.
storage of immunoglobulins
d.
inability to make antibodies

72

4
11.

C.

Fluid/electrolytes
a.
need 80-150 kcal/kg/dy- than term infants
b.
need protein 3-4 g/kg/dy-term 2-2.5g
c.
need addition iron, calcium, K
d.
usually get supplemental Vit. E (multi vitamin)

C ommon c omplic ations of Preterm

1.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
a.
noticeable by Day 3
b.
RDS improves
c.
L
R
d.
increases pulmonary blood flow
e.
L ventricular failure
f.
pulmonary edema
g.
CHF
-S & S
continuous/systolic murmur
bounding pulses
tachycardia
tachypnea
hepatomegaly
-Tx
echocardiogram
restrict fluid-give diuretics
indomethacin-0.2 mg/kg
-stimulates closure of ductus
surgery
2.

Apnea
a.
cessation of breathing > 20 seconds
b.
usually occurs < 36 weeks gestation
c.
R/T immature nervous system
d.
may be R/T
temp instability
maternal drugs in labor
h/o maternal drug abuse
infection
metabolic disorders
asphyxia
abdominal distention

73

e.

f.

3.

assessment
-observe breathing pattern
-stimulate-slap soles of feet
-suction-use with free-flow oxygen
watch for dusky, cyanosis, bradycardia
-prepare for possible intubation
-think possible septic workup
tx
-oxygen per order-usually started if PaO2<92%
warmed and humidified
nasal cannula, hood, PPV, ET tube
Dang er- exc essive oxyg en c an le a d to
retinop athy of pre m aturity or
bronchopulmonary dysplasia
-report ABG changes
-theophylline-CNS stimulant-stimulates resp ctr
relaxes smooth muscle of bronchial airway
and pulmonary blood vessels
-surfactant administration
-ECMO N OT used with premies due to risk of
intraventricular hemorrhage

Intraventricular Hemorrhage-most common type of

intracranial hemorrhage
a.
most susceptible-< 1500 gms, < 34 weeks
b.
triggered by
hypoxia
no venous pressure changes
osmolarity in blood-overuse of volume
expanders
c.
S &S
-hypotonia
-hypotension
-lethargy
-metabolic acidosis
-temp instability
-seizures
-nystagmus
-low Hct
-bulging fontanelles
-apnea
-decerebrate posturing
d.
Tx
-tx the symptoms
-phenobarb-sedative, seizure activity
-serial spinal taps
-VP shunt
-mainly observational and supportive care

74

4.

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

a.
at risk at < 36 weeks, < 1500 gms
b.
higher risk-<1000 gms
c.
oxygen tensions too high may lead to
vasoconstriction
d.
at the end of oxygen therapy:
vascularization of retina constriction of vessels
disintegration of vessels new vessels rupture
retinal hemorrhage scar tissue detachment
blindness
e.
assessment
-ophalmoscope exam-4-6 weeks
-some damage may spontaneously heal
f.
Tx
-laser photocoagulation
-Vit. E therapy
-decrease ambient light
-circumferential cryopexy

5.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
a.
caused by barotraumas from pressure ventilation
and oxygen toxicity
b.
etiology is multifactorial
c.
S&S
-tachypnea
-retractions
-nasal flaring
- work to breath
-tachycardia
d.
Tx
-oxygen
-nutrition
-fluid restriction
-medications: diuretics, steroids, bronchodilators
e.
key management is thru prevention
f.
if untreated-can lead to death from cardiorespiratory failure

6.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis
a.
inflammatory disease of GI mucosa
b.
causes unknown-up to 25-30% mortality rate
c.
contributing factors
-asphyxia -UAC
-infection
-PDA
-RDS
-anemia/ischemia
-congenital heart disease
-early enteral feedings

75

7
d.
e.

f.

g.

7.

D.

breastfed babies have lower risk of NEC

S&S
-hypotonia
-decreased activity
-recurrent apnea
-pallor
-decreased perfusion
-hypotension
-temp instability
-cyanosis
-abdominal distention -diarrhea
-vomiting blood/bile
Dx
-x-ray
-lab reports
-abnormal electrolyte levels
Tx
-mainly supportive
-no feedings-rest the gut-trying probiotics
-use of TPN
-tx of infection
-surgical dissection of perforated/deteriorated
area

Other neurological concerns

a.
hearing-1:50 loss of hearing
- risk R/T congenital virus
-perinatal asphyxia
-birth trauma
-certain medications-gentamycin
b.
speech impairments
c.
cerebral palsy
d.
hydrocephalus
e.
seizure disorders
f.
lower IQs
h.
learning disabilities

Nursing C are
1.
Methods of feeding
a.
depend on gestational age, physical condition,
neuro status
b.
nip ple fe e ding-34 weeks ok
-need coordinated suck and swallow
-needs to have gag reflex, RR < 60, and steady
wt. gain

76

8
c.

d.
e.
f.

III.

g a v a g e-< 34 weeks gestation

-used if infant has
poor gag/swallow
neuro insult
losing wt. due to energy expenditure
TPN-central or peripheral lines
lipids-peripheral, no filter
fluid requirements
-80-100 ml/kg/dy-Day 1
-100-120 ml/kg/dy-Day 2
-150 ml/kg/dy-Day 3
-gradually increase

2.

Assessments
a.
vital signs-watch for temp for heat loss
b.
urine-ck protein, glucose, SG
c.
strict I & O
-watch for vomiting, diarrhea
-watch IV site for infiltration
d.
watch for gastric residual 2 ml
e.
guaiac stools
f.
assess for abdominal distention

3.

Goals
a.
maintenance of respiratory function
b.
maintenance of neutral thermal environment
c.
maintenance of fluid/lytes
d.
prevention of infection
e.
prevention of fatigue
f.
adequate nutrition
g.
promotion of attachment
i.
promotion of sensory stimulation

Dysmature Neonates
A.
C are of the Post Term Ne onate
1.
Problems
a.
post maturity syndrome
b.
hypoglycemia-depleted glycogen stores
c.
meconium aspiration-stress
d.
polycythemia- RBC production R/T hypoxia
e.
congenital anomalies-unknown
f.
seizure activity-R/T hypoxia
g.
cold stress-R/T less sub Q fat

77

9
2.

3.
B.

Assessment
a.
post maturity syndrome
-dry, crackling skin
-mec staining
-long fingernails
-profuse scalp hair
-wasted appearance
b.
meconium aspiration syndrome
-watch for mec stained infant
-may not show signs of resp. depression at birth
-if mec migrates to terminal airways-becomes
meconium aspiration syndrome
m e chanic al obstruction
-if mec aspirated in utero chemical pneumonitis
c.
persistent pulmonary HTN (PPHN)
-pulmonary artery hypertension
-R to L shunting
-may need ECMO (extracorporeal membrane
oxygenation therapy)
Tx
-tx the S & S-ECMO, inhaled nitric oxide, etc

C are of the SG A /IUGR ne onate

1.
Causes
a.
maternal
-smoker
-heart disease
-poor nutrition
-PIH
-substance abuse
-chronic HTN
-advanced DM
-toxic chemical
-infection
exposure
-small stature
-<16, >40 yrs old
-lack of PN care
-low SES
b.
placental
-infarcts
-single umbilical artery
-abnormal cord insertion
-calcifications
c.
fetal
-multiple gestation
-TORCH-toxoplasmosis
other infections, i.e. hepatitis
rubella
cytomegalovirus
herpes (type II)

78

10

C.

2.

Problems
a.
perinatal asphyxia
-associated with h/o
smoker
low SES
preeclampsia
multifetal gestation
infections
DM
-watch for respiratory depression at birth
b.
hypoglycemia
-higher metabolic rate
-RBS < 40 mg/dl in term infant
<25 mg/dl in premie
-poor feeders, jittery, hypothermic
-watch for lethargy, floppy, seizures
c.
heat loss
-less muscle and brown fat mass
-little ability to control skin capillaries
-need to maintain thermoneutrality
d.
hypocalcemia-R/T birth asphyxia
e.
polycythemia-R/T RBCs R/T stress

3.

Tx
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

maintain clear airway

prevent cold stress
feeding per hospital protocol
stabilize temperature
nursing support similar to premies

C are of the LG A Ne onate

1.
Causes
a.
IDM/GDM
b.
genetics
c.
multips
d.
ethnic grps
e.
obesity
2.

Problems
a.
CPD- risk for C/S birth
b.
birth traumas-vacuum, forceps, asphyxia
shoulder dystocias, fx clavicle
c.
hypoglycemia/polycythemia

4.

Tx-tx the S & S

79

11
IV.

Common Respiratory Complications

A.
Respiratory Distress Syndrom e(hyaline membrane disease)
1.
Lung disorder usually affecting premies
a.
infants <1500 gms = 56% risk of RDS
b.
caused by lack of surfactant
2.

Causes
a.
risk of incidence/severity
-African-Americans
-maternal steroid therapy
-stressors such as PIH
-PROM
-IUGR
-maternal drug use
b.
risk of incidence/severity
- in gestation age
-maternal hypotension
-Caucasians
-maternal diabetes
-C/S birth without labor
-second-born twin
-males
-perinatal asphyxia

3.

Problems
a.
lack sufficient surfactant
b.
weak respiratory muscles
g.
epithelial debris in airways
h.
leads to oxygenation, cyanosis, and resp./
metabolic acidosis
i.
can lead to R to L shunting and opening of
foramen ovale and ductus arteriosus

4.

S&S
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.

tachypnea
grunting/nasal flaring
retractions
hypotension
cyanosis
self-limiting disease
-usually abates in 72 hours
-disappearance coincides with production of
surfactant in type 2 cells of alveoli

80

12
5.

B.

C.
V.

Tx
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.

supportive-adequate ventilation/oxygenation
surfactant administration
oxygen therapy per orders
monitoring of acid/base balance
prevent cold stress
abx therapy for infection
proper nutrition and I & Os
possible need for blood transfusion R/T frequent
lab work

Transient Ta chypne a of the Newborn

1.
similar to RDS
2.

R/T asphyxia in utero-fluid in lungs

3.

x-ray shows over expansion/hyperinflation of lungs

4.

Tx-oxygen, ck for possible acidosis

5.

usually improves in 24-48 hrs, well in 2-5 days

Me c onium Aspiration-se e post term ne onate

Neonate with Sepsis

A.
Risk fa ctors
1.
maternal
-low SES
-poor nutrition

-poor PN care
-substance abuse

2.

intrapartum
-PROM
-maternal fever
-chorioamnionitis -prolonged labor
-premature labor -maternal UTI

3.

neonatal
-twins
-birth asphyxia
-galactosemia
-LBW/premie

-male
-mec aspiration
-absence of spleen
-prolonged hospitalization

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13

B.

Mod e of transmission
1.
vertical
a.
in utero
b.
at birth
c.
TORCH
2.

C.

D.

horizontal
a.
after birth
b.
environmental, i.e. Staph

C auses of susc e ptibility

1.
lack immunity
2.

phagocytosis less efficient

3.

dysmaturity

C auses of infe ction

1.
Early onset-within 24 hours of birth
a.
group B strep
b.
Haemophilus influenza
c.
Listeria
d.
E. Coli
e.
Strep. Pneumoniae
f.
more common with PROM, maternal fever,
chorio, and premature labor
g.
higher mortality rate-10-25%
2.

Acquired infections-seen after 2 weeks of age

a.
may be from birth canal or environment
b.
Staph aureus
c.
Staph epidermidis
d.
Psedomonas
e.
group B strep

3.

Viral infections
a.
may cause miscarriage, stillbirth, intrauterine
infections, and congenital malformations
b.
may cause chronic infection with subtle
manifestations
c.
may need isolation from other neonates

82

14

4.

E.

F.

Fungal infections
a.
greatest concern to immuno-compromised
or premature neonates
b.
thrush may be present in otherwise healthy kids

Lo c ation of infe ction

1.
Septicemia is infection in the blood system
2.

Pneumonia-most common form of neonatal infection

-one of the leading causes of perinatal death

3.

Bacterial meningitis affect 1 in 2500 live births

4.

Gastroenteritis not as common

S&S
1.
Respiratory
-apnea
-grunting
-retractions

-tachypnea
-nasal flaring
-decreased O2 sat

2.

CV
-bradycardia
-decreased CO
-tachycardia
-hypotension
-decreased perfusion

3.

CNS
-temp instability
-hypotonia
-seizures

4.

GI
-vomiting
-diarrhea

5.

Skin
-jaundice
-petechiae

-lethargy
-irritability

-abdominal distention
-residuals > 50%
-pallor

83

15

G.

H.

VI.

Se psis workup
1.
lab work
-blood (CBC with diff)
looking for neutrophils, bands(immature WBC)
-urine
-CSF
-gastric aspiration
-culture nose, throat, skin, umbilical cord
2.

chest x-ray

Tx
1.

Tx the symptoms-i.e. abx, O2, isolation

2.

Assess handwashing techniques of the staff

3.

Encourage breastfeeding-passive immunity

The Neonate with Hyperbilirubinemia

A.
Typ es
1.
Physiologic jaundice
a.
occurs in 60-70% of term infants, 80% preterm
b.
arises 24 hours after delivery
2.

B.

Pathologic jaundice
a.
hyperbilirubinemia kernicterus
(bilirubin encephalopathy)
b.
apparent within 24 hours of birth
c.
serum bili of > 5mg/dl in cord blood
d.
serum bili > 15mg/dl at any time

C auses
1.
Maternal factors
a.
Rh/ABO incompatibility
-fetal antigen crosses placenta
-maternal antibodies cross placenta
-cause hemolysis of fetal RBCs
(erythroblastosis fetalis hydrops fetalis)
b.
infection
c.
diabetes
d.
oxytocin in labor
e.
drugs

84

16

2.

C.

Nursing c are
1.
Lab work
a.
direct comb-ck for maternal antibodies in
infants blood
b.
ck infants blood type
c.
serum bili level
2.

VII.

Fetal/newborn factors
a.
premies
b.
hepatic cell damage
c.
polycythemia
d.
intestinal obstruction
e.
pyloric stenosis
f.
biliary atresia (absent or closed bile ducts)
g.
blood swallowed by fetus

Tx
a.
b.
c.

early, frequent feedings

phototherapy
exchange transfusions
-if Rh incompatibility-use O neg blood

The Neonate born to a diabetic mother

A.
Proble ms
1.
congenital anomalies
-believed to be caused by fluctuation in glucose &
episodes of ketoacidosis
-congenital heart lesions
coarctation of the aorta
transposition of the greater vessel
atrial/ventricular septal defects
-CNS
anacephaly
hydrocephaly
encephalocele
meningomyelocele
-MS
caudal regression syndrome-problems of the
lower extremities
2.

macrosomia/birth trauma

85

17
-excessive glucose in blood = fetal insulin production
-enlargement of internal organ except brain
-high risk for fx of clavicle/scapula, cephalohematoma

B.

C.

VIII.

3.

RDS
-4-6X more likely to develop than in normal infants

4.

hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia

-hypocalcemia present in 50% of IDMs
-hypomagnesemia from maternal renal loss R/T DM

5.

hyperbilirubinemia/polycythemia
-excess RBC production leads to bili

Pathophysiology
1.
Normally:
maternal blood more alkaline pH than CO2-rich fetal
blood exchange of O2 & CO2 across placenta
2.

Maternal acidosis:
in gas exchange

3.

Goal:
Maternal control of BS thru pregnancy with PN care

Nursing c are
1.
Pediatric staff at delivery
2.

Implement neonatal glucose testing per protocol

3.

If RBS < 40 mg/dl, supplement with formula or IV prn

4.

Check serum bilirubin and calcium levels

6.

Reduce adverse environmental factors

The Neonate born to a Substance Abusing Mother

A.
C ommon chara cteristics
1.
Fetal alcohol syndrome
a.
eyes
-epicanthal folds
-strabismus
-ptosis-drooping lid
-hypoplastic retinal vessels

86

18
b.
c.
d.
e.

f.
g.
h.
i.
j.

mouth
-poor suck
-cleft lip
-cleft palate
-small teeth
ears-deafness
skeleton
-fusion of cervical vertebrae
-restricted bone growth
heart
-atrial/ventricular septum defects
-Tetralogy of Fallot
-patent ductus arteriosus
kidney
-renal hypoplasia
-hydronephrosis
-urogenital sinus
liver
-hepatic fibrosis
immune system
-increase infections
-otitis media
-upper resp. infections -immune deficiencies
tumors-nonspecific neoplasms
skin
-abnormal palmar
-irregular hair

2.

Cocaine
a.
prematurity/SGA
b.
microcephaly/developmental delays
c.
poor feeder/diarrhea
d.
hyperactivity/difficult to console
e.
congenital anomalies

3.

Heroin
a.
LBW
b.
SGA
c.
neonatal withdrawal issues

4.

Amphetamines
a.
SGA/LBW/premie
b.
poor wt. gain
c.
lethargy

5.

Tobacco
a.
Premie/LBW/IUGR
b.
risk for SIDS
c.
risk for bronchitis/pneumonia

87

19
d.
6.

B.

IX.

developmental delays

Marijuana
a.
possible neonatal tremors
b.
LBW

Nursing C are
1.
Needs multidisciplinary approach for both neonate
and parents
2.

Supportive care
a.
fluid and electrolyte balance
b.
nutrition
c.
infection control
d.
respiratory care

3.

Quiet, soothing environment during withdrawal period

4.

Pharmacological tx-morphine, phenobarb, diazepam,

paregorics (tincture of opium), &
methadone vs buprenorphine (article)

Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) in Newborns

Article

01/13

88

1
Normal Pregnancy
Le cture 7
I.

Physiological Changes during Pregnancy

A.
Re productive syste m and bre asts
1.
Uterus
a.
increased vascularity/dilation of blood vessels
-60 gm(2oz) to 1100 gm(2.2 lb)
b.
hyperplasia-new muscle fibers/tissue
c.
hypertrophy-enlargement of pre-existing fibers
d.
development of the decidua
e.
growth changes R/T stimulation from high levels
of estrogen/progesterone
f.
shape changes
-7 weeks-egg size
-10 weeks-orange size
-12 weeks-grapefruit size
-initially pear shaped
-2nd trimester-globular
-term-ovoid
g.
position
-12 weeks-at or above the symphysis pubis
-16 weeks-between SP and umbilicus
-20 weeks-at the umbilicus
-36 weeks-almost to the xiphoid process
h.
lightening
-nulliparas-2 weeks before term
-multiparas-when labor starts
i.
b allotte m ent-palpate floating structure
j.
altered center of gravity as enlarging uterus tilts
against the anterior abdominal wall
k.
Braxton-Hicks contractions
-start around 4 months
-irregular
-painless
-help to facilitate blood flow
l.
uteroplacental blood flow
-uterine blood flow increases
-more oxygen is extracted from the blood in the
latter part of the pregnancy
-at end of pregnancy, 1/6 of total blood volume
within the vascular system of uterus
m.
He g ars sign-6 weeks-softening of lower uterine
segment

89

B.

2.

Cervix
a.
G ood ells sign-softening of cx-6 weeks
b.
Cha dwicks sign-bluish cast-8 weeks
c.
friability increases
d.
op erculum-mucus plug-endocervical glands

3.

Vagina
a.
increased vascularity
b.
leukorrhea-thick white vaginal discharge
c.
change in pH leads to higher risk for yeast inf.

4.

Breasts
a.
start to change by week 6 R/T hormone surge
b.
increase in sensitivity, breast and nipple size
c.
increase in feeling firm, heaviness, nipple erect
d.
nipples and areola become more pigmented
e.
vessels beneath the skin dilate-more visible
f.
stria e gra vid arum (stretch marks) may appear
g.
may leak colostrum as early as 16 weeks

C ardiov ascular syste m

1.
Heart
a.
slight hypertrophy R/T increase blood flow
b.
position change R/T diaphragm position
c.
transient murmurs may be auscultated
d.
cardiac output
-increased 30-50% by week 32
-only 20% increase by week 40
-R/T increased stroke volume and heart rate
e.
pulse rate increases 10-15 bt/min
2.

Blood
a.
increase in blood volume 40-50% (1500ml)
-plasma-1000 ml
-RBCs-450 ml
b.
physiologic al ane mia-hemodilution of cells
-anemic if Hgb under 10g/dl, Hct under 35%
c.
increase in WBCs
d.
coag times
-circulation time decreases by week 32
near normal at term
- in clotting factors leads to tendency for
blood to coagulate
- risk for thrombosis-esp. with C/S

90

3.

C.

Blood Pressure
a.
1st trimester-no change in BP
b.
2nd trimester-BP 5-10 mm Hg
c.
3rd trimester-BP returns to 1st trimester values
d.
supine hypotensive syndrom e
-if they lie on their backs
-at 5 minutes, reflex bradycardia
-CO by half
-woman feels faint

Respiratory syste m
1.
flaring of the rib cage
2.

shift from abdominal to thoracic breathing

3.

elevated maternal oxygen requirements

a.
acceleration in metabolic rate
b.
the need to add to the tissue mass of uterus
c.
fetal needs

4.

vascularity of the upper resp. tract

a.
nasal and sinus stuffiness-(estrogen-induced)
b.
e pistaxis (nosebleeds)
c.
changes in the voice

5.

pulmonary function
a.
deep breathing- airway resistance-Progesterone
b.
tidal volume
c.
resp rate 2 breaths/min
d.
awareness to breath
e.
sensitivity in medulla to CO2- depth, rate

6.

basal metabolic rate

a.
15-20% by term
b.
reflects in oxygen demand
c.
may experience heat intolerance R/T excess
heat from BMR

7.

acid-base balance
a.
pregnancy is a state of resp. alkalosis
compensated by mild metabolic acidosis
b.
facilitates maternal-fetal O2-CO2 transfer

91

4
D.

E.

Renal syste m
1.
anatomic changes
a.
estrogen and progesterone = uterus size and
blood volume
b.
dilations of ureters, pelvis, renal calyces large
amt. of urine
c.
urine flow rate slowed stasis/stagnation
medium for bacteria
d.
tubular reabsorption impaired glucose in urine
more alkaline urine
e.
urinary frequency from in bladder sensitivity
and compression from uterus
f.
2nd trimester, bladder pulled up into the
abdomen
g.
urethra lengthens-possible problem with cath
2.

functional changes
a.
in GFR
b.
most efficient in L lateral- perfusion to kidneys

3.

fluid and electrolyte balance

a.
tubular reabsorption to maintain needed Na
level
b.
may be overstressed by excessive Na intake
c.
pooling of fluids in legs = less blood flow to
kidneys-better to elevate legs than diuretics
d.
slight protein leakage +1 ok

Inte gum entary

1.
hyperpigmentation
a.
caused by stimulation of anterior pituitary
hormone melanotropin
b.
chlo asm a=brownish facial pigmentationintensified by sun
-usually fades after pregnancy
c.
darkening of nipple, areola, vulva, thighs
d.
line a nigra=dark vertical line from symphysis
pubis to fundus
-starts as line a alb a-before pigmentation
-not present in all pregnant women
e.
stria e gra vid arum-stretch marks
-on abdomen, breasts, thighs
-separation of collagen
-50-90% of women will have this

92

5
2.

F.

G.

Musculoskeletal
1.
lordosis-center of gravity is more forward
2.

relaxin, an ovarian hormone, helps with relaxation and

increased mobility of pelvic joints
-waddling gait

3.

diastasis recti abdominis-persistent separation of

muscles of the abdominal wall

Neurologic syste m
1.
compression of pelvic nerves may cause sensory
changes in legs
-sciatica
2.

3.
4.
H.

other changes
a.
angiom as-vascular spiders
b.
p alm ar erythe m a-blotches on hands
c.
pruritus
d.
gum hypertrophy-bleeding gums
e.
accelerated nail growth
f.
hirsutism-excessive hair growth
g.
blood supply = perspiration

edema on peripheral nerves-c arp al tunnel syndrom e

a.
burning, paresthesia
b.
pain in the hand, radiating to the elbow
tension headaches
sync op e common in early pregnancy

G astrointestinal
1.
peristalsis constipation, N & V
2.

bleeding of gums/problems of the mouth

a.
caused by rising level of estrogen
b.
pty alism-excessive salivation

3.

15-20% will have problem with hiatal hernia

4.

estrogen =

secretion of HCl acid

5.

progesterone =

stomach emptying time=heartburn

93

I.

6.

gallbladder distention prolonged emptying time

and thickening of bile development of gall stones

7.

pruritus gravidarum-may be R/T accumulation of bile

8.

change in appetite/food consumption

a.
change in CHO, protein, fat metabolism
b.
pic a-craving for non-food material
c.
morning sickness-usually ends by 2nd trimester

Endo crine syste m

1.
secretions of pituitary hormones:
a.
thyrotropin
b.
FSH/LH
c.
prolactin
d.
vasopressin (antidiurectic hormone)
e.
oxytocin
2.

3.
4.

5.
II.

secretions of thyroid hormones:

a.
thyroxine
b.
triiodothyronine
secretion of parathyroid hormones
secretion of the adrenal hormones:
a.
cortisol-r/t estrogen-regulates CHO/prot meta.
b.
Aldosterone-protective response to Na excretion
secretion of insulin from the pancreas

Diagnosis of Pregnancy
A.
Gra vidity and Parity
1.
gravida-woman who is pregnant
a.
nulligravida-never been pregnant
b.
multigravida-2 or more pregnancies
c.
primigravidas-first pregnancy
2.

parity-number of births after 20 weeks gestation

a.
doesnt matter if born alive or stillborn
b.
nullipara-never completed a pregnancy
c.
multipara-completed 2 or more births at
more than 20 weeks gestation
d.
primipara-completed one birth > 20 weeks
e.
not the number of fetuses born

94

B.

3.

preterm-before 37 weeks gestation

4.

postdates-after 42 week of gestation

5.

viability-capacity to live outside the uterus

a.
somewhere between week 22-24
b.
fetus greater than 500 gms

6.

5-digit system
a.
gravida
b.
term-para
c.
preterm
d.
abortions-spontaneous or therapeutic
e.
living children

Pre gnanc y tests

1.
hCG-human chorionic gonadotropin
a.
production starts with implantation
b.
found in blood 6 days after conception
c.
in urine by day 26
d.
level rises until peak at day 60-70 in pregnancy
then falls-lowest level at 100-130 days
2.

C.

D.

ELISA-enzyme linked immunosorbent assays

a.
color change with hCG bonding
b.
result as fast as 5 minutes
c.
detect hCG in 7-9 after conception

Na g eles Rule
1.
First day of LMP

subtract 3 months

Classic indic ators

1.
presumptive
a.
amenorrhea-week 4
b.
quickening-weeks 16-20
c.
breast changes-weeks 3-4
d.
N & V-weeks 4-14
e.
urinary frequency-weeks 6-12
f.
fatigue-week 12
2.

probable
a.
Goodwells sign-week 5
b.
Chadwicks sign-weeks 6-8
c.
Hegars sign-weeks 6-12

add 1 week

95

8
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
3.

III.

+ pregnancy test (serum)-weeks 4-12

+ pregnancy test (urine)-weeks 6-12
Braxton-Hicks contractions-week 16
abdominal enlargement
ballottement-weeks 16-28
palpable fetal outline

positive
a.
visualization of fetus on U/S-weeks 5-6
b.
fetal heart tones by U/S-week 6
c.
fetal heart tones by Doppler-weeks 10-17
d.
FHT by stethoscope-weeks 17-19
e.
fetal movements palpated-weeks 19-22
f.
visibility-late pregnancy

First Trimester
A.
History ta king
1.
reasons for seeking care
a.
may have other concerns besides the preg.
b.
use open ended questions
2.

current pregnancy
a.
review signs and symptoms
b.
evaluate how pt is coping

3.

OB/Gyn history
a.
menstrual history
b.
contraceptive history
c.
any infertility concerns
d.
any Gyn concerns
e.
ck last Pap and cultures for STIs

4.

medical history
a.
pre-existing medical conditions/concerns
b.
history of surgical procedures

5.

nutritional history
a.
assess for food allergies
b.
any special dietary concerns

6.

history of drug use

a.
past and present use of legal medications
b.
h/o illegal drug use

96

B.

C.

7.

family history

8.

psychosocial history
a.
situational factors
b.
any previous care of infants
c.
coping mechanisms

9.

history of physical/verbal abuse

a.
abuse may increase during pregnancy
b.
need immediate clinical intervention

Physic al exa mination

1.
vital signs
2.

head to toe assessment

3.

pelvic exam with vaginal/abdominal U/S

4.

review of systems
a.
assess each sign/symptom for onset, character,
and course
b.
assess for aggravating/alleviating factors

La boratory tests
1.
blood work up
a.
CBC
b.
blood type and Rh factor
c.
rubella titer
d.
HIV screen
e.
HbsAG screen
f.
RPR/VDRL
g.
Tay-Sachs
h.
Sickle-cell
i.
glucose tolerance test
2.

urine screen
a.
urinalysis with culture
b.
UDAP

3.

pelvic
a.
Pap smear
b.
cultures for STIs

4.

TB skin test

97

10
5.

D.

IV.

screening for fetal chromosome anomalies

a.
NT-nuchal translucency (fetal nuchal fold)
b.
serum testing for free beta hCG and PAPP-A
c.
NT, free beta hCG, and PAPP-A can
suggest aneuploidy

Priority p atient e duc ation topics

1.
schedule of visits
2.

rationale for labs

3.

Kegel exercises for pelvic floor

4.

review nutritional needs

5.

ok to travel and continue exercise as comfortable

6.

ck all use of medications with your provider-even OTC

a.
will start on PN vitamins with folic acid
b.
iron tabs prn anemia

7.

immunizations
a.
ok if killed-DT, Hep B, rabies (Tdap-after 20 wks)
b.
no ok if live-measles, MMR, C Pox, mumps, polio

8.

alcohol, tobacco usage

9.

tips to help with fatigue, N & V

PROM, PTL, abruption

Second trimester
A.
Ongoing c are
1.
physical examination
a.
weight-approx. 1 lb per week past 1st trimester
b.
BP-watch for 140/90 or systolic 30>baseline
diastolic 15>baseline
c.
dip urine for protein, glucose
d.
auscultate FHT
e.
assess breasts/nipples
f.
review birth plan
g.
ask about quickening-approx 20 weeks

98

11
2.

pertinent laboratory tests

a.
Quad Screen-done between 15-20 weeks:
1. MSAFP
2. hCG
3. UE-unconjugated estriol
4. inhibin-A
5. Assessing for possible spina bidifa, Down
syndrome, or other chromosomal defects
b.
follow-up on any prior test results
c.
amniocentesis

3.

potential complications
a.
bleeding
b.
decreased fetal activity
c.
PIH/GHTN
-headache
-swelling of face/fingers
-epigastric pain
-muscular irritability
-visual disturbance
d.
PROM
-amniotic fluid discharge
e.
infections
-chills
-fever
-burning with urination

4.

fundal height
a.
fundal height (from symphysis pubis to top of
uterus) # in cm = weeks of gestation
(weeks 18-36)
b.
stable or decreased fundal height-? IUGR
c.
excessive increase-multifetal gestation,
hydramnios

5.

gestational age
a.
determined from LMP, contraceptive history, and
pregnancy test results
b.
usually confirmed with U/S

6.

interventions for discomforts

a.
assess skin changes
b.
headaches-rest, hydration, acetaminophen
c.
constipation-hydration, exercise, prune juice

99

12
d.
e.
f.
g.
7.

V.

varicose veins-elevate legs, support stockings

food cravings-6 small meals-keep BS level even
heartburn-small meals, sit up after eating, spicy
foods, antacids
joint/ligament pain-support garments

education topics
a.
warning signs
b.
assess nutrition status
c.
hygiene-R/T increase perspiration
d.
UTI prevention-hydration, freq. Voids
e.
breast shields for inverted nipples
-too much stimulation can lead to PTL
f.
dental care
g.
R&R
h.
risk factors at work-i.e. caustic agents
i.
travel-if not high risk, ok
j.
avoid alcohol, cigarettes
k.
need for support garments

Third Trimester
A.
History and physic al
1.
vaginal exams may begin in the last month
2.
B.

assess for S & S of PTL, PIH, GDM

La boratory tests
1.
Group Beta strep culture-35-37 weeks
2.

rhogam injection-26-28 weeks for Rh - moms

3.

glucose tolerance test

4.

may retest for STIs

C.

Interventions for disc omforts (sa m e as 2nd trim ester)

D.

Fa mily a djustm ents

1.
maternal tasks
a.
accept the concept of being pregnant
b.
may dislike pregnancy but love child
c.
if happy about pregnancy-usually have
higher self-esteem, confidence
d.
dealing with rapid mood changes

100

13
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.

may have feelings of ambivalence

prepare for childbirth
practice of mothering role
may need to work on communication with
family members
work on relationship with her mother
trust and share with the partner
work on sexual relationship with spouse
3 phases of developmental pattern
-accept biological fact-I am pregnant
-accepts need to nurture fetus-I am going to
have a baby
-prepares for role of parent-I am going to be a
mother

2.

paternal tasks
a.
acceptance of pregnancy
-may express joy or dismay
-unwanted vs. unplanned
-affairs/battery of spouse
b.
c ouv a d es
-observance of rituals = transition to fatherhood
-may have psychosomatic symptoms of preg.
c.
participate in childbirth education
d.
identify with father role
-may be influenced by how their father was
e.
reordering personal relationships
-may see fetal as a rival
-may feel wife is too dependent on MD/CNM
f.
observer vs. expressive vs. instrumental
g.
establish relationship with fetus
-kiss or rub abdomen
-talk to fetus
-assist with preparing babys room

3.

sibling adjustment
a.
first crisis for a child
b.
may feel replaced
c.
need to prepared to become the big sister or
brother
d.
sibling classes

101

14

E.

4.

grandparent responses
a.
if only in 30s or 40s-may not be as interested
b.
may be non-supportive-try to decrease new
mothers self esteem
c.
most see the pregnancy as a renewal of their
youth
d.
continuity of past and present
e.
may help bridge a previous estrangement
f.
now have classes on being a grandparent

5.

other psychosocial issues

a.
adolescent mothers
-most pregnancies unintended-80%
-40% will end in abortion-EABs & SABs
-higher rates for Hispanics, African-Americans
-most unmarried, low SES
-more likely not to receive PN care
-RN needs to encourage PN visits, nutritional
guidelines, and social service consult
b.
older mothers
-multips-pregnancy may be surprise-thought
to have started menopause
-may feel separated from younger moms
-nullips-pregnancy is a chosen event
-may feel isolated from older friends
-usually seek genetic counseling and PN care
-higher risk for adverse perinatal outcomes

Educ ation topics

1.
preparation for childbirth classes
a.
prenatal yoga
b.
Lamaze
c.
prenatal breast feeding
d.
cesarean information
2.

review warning signs

3.

signs and symptoms of labor

4.

other potential complications

a.
PIH
b.
PTL/PROM
c.
bleeding
d.
FM

102

15
VI.

Ongoing safety issues

A.
Tra vel/ exercise
1.
use common sense
a.
no prolonged use of hot tubs
b.
high risk for clots in legs if not moving around
1.
walk around the plane during long trips
2.
stop the car every few hours for stretch

B.

should avoid air travel after the 7th month

3.

MVA-most common cause of fetal death-seatbelts

4.

continue with non-weight bearing exercises

Substanc e a buse
1.
no such thing as a safe level of drugs
2.

alcoholism-risk of fetal alcohol syndrome, abortion

-problem with using antabuse-suspected teratogenic

3.

smoking-retards fetal growth and development

a.
risk for PTL, PROM, abruption
b.
second-hand smoke just as bad

4.

caffeine-since its a stimulant, best to limit-300 mg/day

a.
risk of SAB
b.
risk of growth restriction

C.

V a c cinations-ok if not a live v a c cine

D.

Battering
1.
may increase with enlargement of abdomen

E.
VII.

2.

2.

must be reported

3.

hook up pt. with social services/womens shelters

Preventing Preterm la bor

Multifetal pregnancies
A.
M aternal c onc erns
1.
blood volume
2.

anemia

strain on CV system

103

16

3.

uterine distention separation of abdominal muscles

4.

risk for placenta previa

5.

for separation of placenta

6.

7.
B.

VIII.

lack of emotional preparement

a.
will need additional education and support
b.
possible need for selective reduction
strain on finances, space, workload, and relationships

Fetal c onc erns

1.
risk of prematurity
2.

PROM

3.

types of twins
a.
dizygotic-from 2 fertilized ova/2 spermatozoa
1.
2 placentas
2.
2 chorions
3.
2 amnions
b.
monozygotic-originating from one fertilized ovum
1.
dichorionic -dia mniotic twins (20-30%)
-if division 3 days after fertilization
-may have separate or fused placentas
2.
mono chorionic -dia mniotic
-if division 5 days after fertilization
3.
mono chorionic -mono a mniotic
-if division 7-13 days after fertilization
-rarest
c.
risk of congenital malformations-in monozygotic
twins
d.
twin to twin shunting
e.
two-vessel cord

4.

delivery complications

Cultural variations during the prenatal period

A.
Exa mples of cultural v ariations
1.
belief of whether pregnancy is state of illness/health
2.

behavioral expectations of mother/provider

104

17

B.

3.

dietary prescriptions/restrictions
a.
warm vs. cold
b.
like to like
c.
pica

4.

activity restrictions

5.

availability of advice/if advice is sought at all

6.

consideration of modesty/religion
a.
clothing
b.
amulets, beads

7.

pain
a.
b.
c.
d.

8.

no tying of knots-leads to knot in umbilical cord

9.

knife under bed to cut the pain

10.

specific groups
a.
Mexicans
-stoic until just before delivery
-avoid eclipse of moon-cleft palate
-everybody present at delivery
b.
Middle Eastern
-only female attendants
-FOB usually not at delivery
c.
Asian
-prefer warm fluid
-natural childbirth
-labor in silence
-may eat during labor
-FOB may or may not be present

inevitable, to be endured
can be avoided completely
punishment for sin
can be controlled

Nursing c are
1.
support cultural belief-offer alternatives
2.

encourage patients to participate in medical

decisions

105

18

IX.

Maternal Nutrition
A.
Nutritional re quire m ents
1.
energy needs-additional 300 kcal greater than
pre-pregnancy
2.

protein
a.
needed for growing fetus
b.
milk, meat, eggs, cheese-complete proteins
c.
only slightly higher need than non-pregnancy

3.

fluids
a.
b.
c.
d.

4.

recommend 8-10 glasses (2-3 liters)

caffeinated drinks dont count-diuretic
may be good to avoid artificial sweeteners
proper hydrations helps prevent headaches,
constipation, and uterine cramping

minerals and vitamins

a.
iron
-needed for fetus and expansion of maternal
RBC mass
-poor iron intake/absorption = iron deficiency
-if diagnosed with anemia-extra iron supplements
and iron-rich diet
-iron deficiency can lead to:
-maternal: cardiac failure, PP infections,
poor wound healing, death
-fetal: PTL, low-birth weight infant
-deficiencies more common in teen moms and
African-Americans
b.
calcium
-no change in DRI for calcium
-1000 mg daily if 19 yrs or older
-1300 mg daily if under 19
-if lactose-intolerant, seeks non-dairy sources of
calcium
-may need dietary supplement containing
600 mg calcium
-helps prevent leg cramps from imbalance of
calcium/phosphorus ratio
c.
sodium
-slight increase in need
-essential for maintaining water balance

106

19

d.

e.

f.

B.

-restriction only needed in women with

HTN, renal or liver failure
zinc
-deficiency associated with CNS malformations
-needed for protein metabolism
-if pt on high-dose iron supplements, needs
additional zinc supplement
fat-soluble vitamins-A, D, E, K
-chronic overdoses can lead to toxic levels
-Accutane-if used for cystic acne, may cause
multiple birth defects
-neonatal hypocalcemia noted in areas where
mothers skin lacked access to sunlight
-Vit. K.-for synthesis of prothrombin
water-soluble vitamins-B, C
-readily excreted in urine so needs frequent
intake
-Folic acid
-need 50% more folic acid than nonpregnancy
-400-800 mcg daily
-CDC-50-70% of NTD (neural tube defect)
& anaencephaly with adequate folate

Weight g ain
1.
1st trimester-5 lbs (1-2 kg)
2nd-3rd trimester-1 lb/week (0.44 kg/week)
2.

normal BMI-11.5-16 kg (25-35 lbs)

underweight-12.5-18 kg (28-40 lbs)
overweight-7-11.5 kg (15-25 lbs)
obese-7 kg ( 15 lbs)

3.

1st trimester-development of fetal tissues

2nd and 3rd trimester-growth of fetal tissues

C.

Cultural differenc es

D.

Nutritional risk fa ctors

1.
Vegetarian
2.
Pica
3.
Lactose Intolerant
4.
Anorexia/Bulimia

01/13

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1
Fetal Assessment
Le cture 8
I.

The High Risk Pregnancy

A.
Indic ations for fetal dia gnostic testing
1.
biophysical-risk factors that originate within the mother
or fetus-affect the development or function of either
or both
a.
genetics
-defective genes
-inherited disorders
-chromosomal anomalies
-multiple pregnancies
-ABO incompatibility
b.
nutritional status
-teen moms
-3 pregnancies in last 2 years
-tobacco, alcohol, or drug use
-inadequate or excessive weight gain
-Hct less than 33%
c.
medical or obstetric
-chronic HTN
-PIH
-GDM or IDDM
-h/o PTL
-AMA
-h/o stillborn, fetal death
-sickle cell
-heart disease
-HIV
-bleeding problems
2.

psychosocial-risks comprised of maternal behaviors

and adverse lifestyle that have a negative effect on
the health of the mother and/or fetus
a.
smoking
b.
caffeine
c.
alcohol
d.
drugs
e.
psychologic status
-h/o physical/verbal abuse
-inadequate support systems
-noncompliance with cultural norms
-situational crises

108

3.

4.

B.

II.

-unsafe cultural, ethical, or religious practices

sociodemographic-risks arise from the mother and her
family and place the mother and fetus at risk
a.
low income
b.
lack of PN care
c.
age
d.
parity
e.
marital status
f.
residence
g.
ethnicity
environmental-risks include hazards of the workplace
and the womans general environment
a.
infections
b.
radiation
c.
chemicals
d.
therapeutic drugs
e.
illegal drugs
f.
industrial pollutants
g.
smoke, stress, diet

Nursing Interventions
1.
Complete PN interview with history
2.

Offer access to services for health promotion

3.

Discuss reasons for health diet and lifestyle practices

4.

Emphasize need to keep PN visits and do lab work

5.

Educate patient/partner to play an active role in

health of the mother and fetus

Fetal diagnostic tests

A.
Biophysic al Assessm ent
1.
Daily fetal movement count
a.
simple, noninvasive, done at home
b.
can be affected by fetal sleep cycle or maternal
drug use
c.
presence of fetal movement is generally a sign
of good health
d.
< 10 movements in 3 hours, CALL MD
e.
2 hours after a meal and still < 4, CALL MD
f.
follow up with NST, CST, or biophysical profile

109

2.

ultrasound
a.
indicators
-gestational age
-multiple gestations
-fetal growth patterns
-fetal congenital anomalies
-placental position and maturity
-affects of disease process on the fetus
-assess fetal responses to intrauterine environ.
-assist with amniocentesis, CVS, fetoscopy, etc.
b.
data
-reflections of echoes that are produced when
sound waves are dispersed to and
absorbed by tissues being scanned
-no recognizable risks to mother or baby
-full bladder helps to lifts up the uterus
-tr a nsv a gin a l pro b e
1.
allows for better visualization of pelvis
2.
good to use on obese patients
3.
allows pregnancy to be determined
earlier
4.
well tolerated, no full bladder
5.
helps detect ectopic pregnancies
6.
used in adjunction with abdominal
scan to R/O PTL in 2nd & 3rd trimesters
- a b d o min a l sc a n
1.
full bladder helps move uterus up
2.
may be hard to use on obese pts.
3.
more useful after 1st trimester
-fetal heart activity by 6-7 week by echo scanner
-gestational age
1.
gestational sac dimensions-8 weeks
2.
crown-rump length-7-14 weeks
3.
biparietal diameter (BPD)-12+ weeks
4.
femur length-12+ weeks
-amniotic fluid volume (AFV or AFI)
1.
ck fluid-filled pockets without fetal
parts or cord
2.
AFI-depth of fluid in all 4 quads
-< 5cm=oligo
-5-19 cm=normal
-over 20 cm=poly

110

3.
4.
3.

B.

decreased AFV-largest pocket of

fluid is <2 cm
increased AFV-multiple large
pockets of fluid > 12 cm

MRI-magnetic resonance imaging

a.
noninvasive, no known effect on fetus
b.
evaluate fetal growth
c.
evaluate fetal structure
d.
evaluate placental growth, position
e.
AFV
f.
maternal structures
g.
biochemical status
h.
soft tissue, metabolic, or functional malformations

Bio che mic al Assessm ent

1.
Amniocentesis
a.
transabdominal insertion of a needle into uterus
b.
done after week 14 when uterus is in the abd.
c.
indications for:
-PN diagnosis of genetic disorders
collection of fetal cells in fluid
karyotype done
AFP level-possible neural tube defect
-congenital anomalies
-assessment of lung maturity
L/S ratio of 2:1 or +PG or LBC >50,000 cts/UL
-dx fetal hemolytic disease
d.
complications
-less than 1% of cases
-PTL/miscarriage
-infection
-hemorrhage(Rh moms get Rhogam)
-amniotic fluid embolism
-injury to fetus/fetal death
2.

PUBS-percutaneous umbilical blood sampling

a.
also known as cordocentesis
b.
used during 2nd or 3rd trimester
c.
used for blood sampling or transfusion
d.
insert needle into fetal vessel using U/S
e.
used to dx fetal blood disorders, karyotype,
blood type, and coombs

111

5
f.

C.

assess FHR for 1 hour and rescan in 1 hour

3.

CVS-chorionic villus sampling

a.
done at 10-12 weeks
b.
remove small tissue from fetal portion of placenta
c.
indicative of fetal genetic makeup
d.
use transcervical or transabdominal approach
e.
complications
-abortion
-infection
-bleeding
f.
Rhogam given to Rh moms
g.
90% of procedures done on women > 35 yrs old
h.
because done early, cant detect neural tube
defects

4.

maternal blood sampling

a.
California Prenatal Screening Program
-see booklet for blood test and U/S offered
b.
Coombs
-test for Rh incompatibility
-indirect=amt. of Rh+ antibodies in moms blood
-direct=presence of antibody-coated Rh+ RBCs
in babys blood
-determine severity of fetal anemia from
hemolysis

Ele ctronic fetal monitoring

1.
Nonstress test-(NST)
a.
healthy fetus with intact CNS, 90% will have FHR
accelerations with gross body movements
b.
blunted by hypoxia, acidosis, drugs, fetal sleep
c.
reactive if:
-normal baseline rate
-2 or more accelerations (15X15) in 20 min.
-moderated variability
d.
nonreactive or unsatisfactory
-need further monitoring, consider CST/BPP
2.

contraction stress test-(CST)

a.
provides a warning of fetal compromise earlier
than NST
b.
U/Cs decrease uterine blood flow/placental
perfusion-hypoxia to fetus=deceleration in FHR
c.
FHR is monitored for at least 15 minutes
d.
nipple-stimulated CST

112

e.
f.
g.

3.

D.

-massage nipple until contraction is elicited

-desire 3 U/Cs/10 minutes/lasting 40-60 sec
oxytocin-stimulated CST
-IV infusion of oxytocin to start U/Cs
-increased in 0.5 mU/min increments
negative results
-no late decels
positive results
-persistent and consistent late decels with more
than half the contractions

fetal oxygen saturation

a.
FSpO2 may be helpful in differentiating fetal
hypoxia
b.
adjunct to EFM
c.
normal FSpO2 may prevent unnecessary
interventions when a nonreassuring FHR pattern
is identified
d.
ROM is needed
e.
signal error if improperly placed, too hairy, or
too much vernix
f.
normal FSpO2 during labor is between 30-70%

Biophysic al profile
1.
noninvasive dynamic assessment of fetus/environment
2.

assessing 5 variables
a.
fetal breathing movements
-normal (2)-one or more episodes in 30 min
lasting > 30 seconds
-abnormal (0)-absent or no episode matching
requirement above
b.
gross body movements
-normal (2)-3 or more movements/30 min
-abnormal (0)-none or less than 3/30 min
c.
fetal tone
-normal (2)-1 or more active extension with
return to flexion
-abnormal (0)-slow extension with return
d.
reactive fetal heart rate
-normal (2)-2 or more accels with +FM/20 min
-abnormal (0)-less than requirement
e.
qualitative amniotic fluid volume
-normal (2)-1 or more pockets of fluid > 1 cm in

113

7
2 perpendicular planes
-abnormal (0)-pockets absent or below needed
3.

E.

F.

score
a.
normal = 8-10 if AFI ok
b.
equivocal = 6
c.
abnormal = <4

Role of the Nurse in Fetal Assessm ent Testing

1.
support person when the woman is undergoing exams
such as U/S, amnio, PUBS, CVS, etc
2.

in some settings, the RN will perform the NST, CST,

BPP, and basic U/S

3.

patient teaching
a.
preparation for procedure
b.
interpreting the findings
d.
providing psychosocial support PRN

Ele ctronic FHR assessm ent

1.
FHR tracing-assessment and interpretation
a.
baseline
-range of FHR in a 10 minute period in the
absence of or between U/Cs
-110-160 bpm
b.
variability
-98% accuracy in predicting fetal well-being
-result of fetal sympathetic/parasympathetic
nervous systems
-can be affected by fetal sleep cycle, maternal
analgesics, prematurity, congenital
anomalies
-decrease in variability-possible sign of fetal
distress or profound compromise
c.
bradycardia
-FHR below 110 bpm for 10 minutes or more
-indicative of fetal hypoxia
d.
tachycardia
-FHR over 160 bpm for 10 minutes or more
-marked tachycardia > 180 bpm
-prematurity
-mild hypoxia
-tocolytic agents
-maternal fever

114

e.

-maternal anemia
-fetal activity
changes in FHR
-accelerations-usually assoc. with + FM
-decelerations-early, late, variable

2.

nursing role
a.
record information on strip if unable to chart
b.
vaginal exams
c.
assess if ROM
d.
VS assessments
e.
position changes when needed
f.
oxygen via mask
g.
medications
h.
emesis control
i.
assess need for internal monitors

3.

deceleration patterns
a.
early-rarely below 110 bpm
-periodic decels R/T intense fetal head
compression
-uniform shape, mirror image of U/C
b.
late
-uniform-reflects shape of contraction
-onset after peak of U/C
-repetitious
-cause-uteroplacental insufficiency
-hypotension
-PIH
-hypertonic contractions
-abruptio
-postmaturity
-IUGR
-DM
-action
-oxygen
-position change
-stop pitocin drip
-IV hydration
-assess other S & S
c.
variable
-U or V shaped
-with or without U/C
-R/T cord compression
-usually transient, changeable
-action
change to side lying
oxygen
external fetal manipulation
SVE
knee-chest position
amnioinfusion if ROM

115

9
Pre gnanc y at Risk
IV.

Disorders Causing Bleeding in Early Pregnancy

A.
he morrha g e during pre gnanc y
1.
emergent situation-complicates 1 in 5 pregnancies

B.

2.

during the first half-usually result of SAB, ectopic, molar

or incompetent cx

3.

during the second half-usually placenta previa,

placenta abruptio

4.

risk for maternal exsanguination with 8-10 minutes

r/t uterine blood flow is 650 ml/min (15% of CO)

spontane ous a bortion

1.
pregnancy that ends before 20 weeks
2.

or fetal weight less than 500 gms

3.

incidence-10-15% of all pregnancies

4.

early-occurring prior to 12 weeks

a.
50% causation from chromosomal abnormalities
b.
80% occur within the first 12 weeks
c.
other causes
-endocrine imbalance (IDDM)
-immunological factors (antiphospholipid
antibodies)
-infections (chlamydia, bacteruria)
-systemic disorders (lupus)
-genetic factors

5.

late-12-20 weeks
a.
usually r/t maternal causes
-AMA
-parity
-chronic infections
-premature dilation of cx
-reproductive tract anomalies
-chronic diseases
-inadequate nutrition
-recreational drug use/abuse

116

10

C.

6.

types
a.
threatened-spotting, closed cervix, cramping
b.
inevitable-open cervix, mod-heavy bleeding,
mod-severe cramping
c.
incomplete-some POC retained
d.
complete-all POC removed
e.
missed-death in utero without obvious S & S
diagnosed by U/S
f.
recurrent-3 or more

7.

clinical manifestations
a.
increasingly severe as gest. age increases
b.
before 6 weeks-increased flow like heavy
menses
c.
6-12 weeks-moderate discomfort, blood loss
d.
12 weeks-severe pain

8.

assessment
a.
check PN history and hCG level
b.
U/S
c.
CBC
d.
blood type and Rh factor
e.
assess for infection

9.

plan of care
a.
rest and supportive care
b.
D&C
c.
D&E
d.
may need prostaglandins, IV, or pitocin for
fetal demise

10.

teaching
a.
report heavy or bright red bleeding
b.
some scant dark discharge 1-2 weeks post
c.
no vaginal insertions until bleeding stops
d.
take entire course of abx if prescribed
e.
grief counseling if needed
f.
refer to support group

induc e d a bortion
1.
elective-by request
2.

therapeutic-for maternal/fetal health or disease

117

11

D.

3.

primarily done in 1st trimester

4.

assessment
a.
informed consent
b.
options explored
c.
discuss conflicts/fears

5.

procedure
a.
laminaria then vacuum aspiration (D & E )
b.
may use PG gel to ripen cx
c.
need to monitor temp. and bleeding
d.
may use RU486 (Mifepristone)
e.
may use methotrexate IM with vaginal
misoprostol

6.

complications
a.
infection
b.
retained POC
c.
clots
d.
bleeding

Ectopic pre gnanc y

1.
fertilized ovum outside the uterus
2.

accounts for 2% of all pregnancies

3.

95% occur in the fallopian tubes

a.
1% ovary
b.
3% abdominal cavity
c.
1% cervix

4.

responsible for 10% of all maternal mortality &

leading cause of infertility

5.

assessment
a.
bleeding
b.
dull, colicky pain
c.
tenderness
d.
referred shoulder pain r/t diaphragmatic
irritation
e.
shock if ruptured
f.
Cullens sign-ecchymotic blueness around the
umbilicus indicating hematoperitoneum

118

12

F.

6.

diagnosis
a.
clinical picture sounds like other infections or
diseases
b.
need to r/o appendicitis, SAB, etc.
c.
beta hCG, CBC, and U/S
d.
progesterone 25ng/mL=intrauterine
progesterone <5ng/mL=dead fetus/ectopic

7.

procedure
a.
unruptured-methotrexate to dissolve residual
tissue
b.
salpingostomy
c.
ruptured-laparotomy with salpingectomy

8.

plan
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.

teaching concerning possible procedures

monitor labs-CBC, hCG, blood type, Rh
administration of IV fluids/blood transfusion
frequent vital signs
administration of Rhogam PRN
post-op teaching
support groups/grief counseling

G estational trophoblastic dise ase

1.
hydatidiform mole, invasive mole, and
choriocarcinoma
2.

incidence: 1:1200, slightly higher in Asians

3.

types of hydatidiform moles:

a.
c omplete-fertilized egg whose nucleus is lost
-intrauterine contents resemble bunch of white
grapes-grow and enlarge uterus
-no fetus, placenta, membranes, or fluid
-avascular vesicles
-associated with chorio c arcinom a
b.
p artial-2 sperm fertilized normal ovum, results
in ambiguous parts, congenital anomalies
-karyotype of 69 xxy, 69 xxx, or 69 xy
-fetus with multiple anomolies

4.

etiology unknown

5.

risk factors: clomid, teenagers, women over 40

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13

V.

6.

manifestations
a.
early part of pregnancy uncomplicated
b.
dark brown vaginal discharge or bright red
c.
higher than expected fundal height (50%)
d.
associated with anemia, hyperemesis
gravidarum, abdominal cramps
e.
PIH-9-12 weeks
f.
16 weeks-passage of vesicles

7.

labs/tests
a.
serial hCG
b.
U/S

8.

plan
a.
suction curettage of tissue
b.
induction with pitocin/prostaglandins NOT
recommended r/t increase risk of embolization
of trophoblastic tissue
c.
Rhogam if needed

9.

nursing plan
a.
care for grief/loss
b.
therapeutic communication
c.
return for serial hCG protocol for 1 year &
baseline chest x-ray to detect lung metastasis
e.
monitor hCG and increasing fundal height for
possible choriocarcinoma-chemo/methotrexate

Disorders Causing Bleeding in Later Pregnancy

A.
Pla c enta previa
1.
implantation of placenta in lower uterine segment
near or over internal cervical os
2.

types
a.
total-os totally covered when cervix dilated
b.
partial-incomplete
c.
marginal-edge extends to os but may increase
during dilation
d.
low-lying-implanted in lower uterine segmentdoesnt reach os

3.

incidence: 0.5% of all births

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14

B.

4.

associated risk factors

a.
previous placenta previa (12X risk)
b.
previous C/S
c.
induced abortion
d.
multifetal
e.
closely spaced pregnancies
f.
AMA
g.
ethnic-African-American, Asians
h.
smoking
i.
cocaine

5.

manifestations
a.
70% painless bleeding
b.
20% uterine activity

6.

diagnosis
a.
transabdominal ultrasound
b.
requires C/S
c.
ck NST, BPP, fetal lung maturity
d.
bed rest PRN
e.
observation for FHR, vaginal bleeding, VS

7.

plan
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.

if term and in labor with bleeding-C/S

if before 36-37 weeks-rest/observation
NST, fetal monitoring
monitor bleeding and vital signs
monitor CBC
give Betamethasone
no vaginal exams
do C/S later if stable

A bruptio pla c enta

1.
premature separation of placenta, detachment of part
or all of placenta from implantation site after 20 weeks
gestation
2.

significant perinatal mortality for both fetus/mother

3.

risk factors
a.
HTN
b.
cocaine
c.
blunt trauma-battering, MVA
d.
smoking

121

15
e.
f.

malnutrition
risk of recurrence significant

4.

classification
a.
Grade 1-mild separation-10-20%
b.
Grade 2-moderate-20-50%
c.
Grade 3-severe->50%

5.

clinical
a.
significant uterine tenderness/pain
b.
vaginal bleeding
c.
contractions
d.
may have no bleeding
e.
hypovolemic shock
f.
coagulopathy
g.
couvelaire uterus-R/T blood trapped between
placenta and uterine wall hysterectomy
h.
DIC -disse minate d intra v ascular c o a gulation
i.
complications-hemorrhage, shock, infection
j.
perinatal mortality-hypoxia in utero, PTL, SGA,
neurological deficits

6.

diagnosis-U/S

7.

plan
a.
b.
c.
d.

9.

nursing care
a.
large bore IVs
b.
foley catheter
c.
watch for decrease in urinary output
d.
blood administration PRN
e.
monitor FHR
f.
monitor for pain
g.
monitor CBC, fibrinogen, PT, PTT
h.
therapeutic communication for anxiety, grief

depends on gestation age, status, and mom

VS, fetal monitoring, I & O, IV fluids, blood admin.
betamethasone if applicable
usually requires C/S-may have problems with
uncontrollable bleeding

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16
VI.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum
A.
Risk fa ctors
1.
less than 20 yrs old, obesity, multifetal, molar
2.
B.

Priority nursing c are

1.
plan
a.
admit, place IV, keep NPO
b.
diet-advance as tolerated
c.
medications: according to need
-Zofran-ondansetron HCl
-Reglan-metoclopramide
-Benadryl-diphenhydramine
-Inapsine-droperidol
-corticosteroids
d.
psych consult PRN
2.

VII.

etiology-obscure, multifactorial-may be associated with

transient hyperthyroidism or elevated levels of estrogen

nursing care
a.
therapeutic communication
b.
I&O
c.
daily weight
d.
rest
e.
diet as tolerated
f.
small, frequent meals
g.
decrease fats and protein if not tolerated
h.
monitor IV site

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

A.
Ba ckground
1.
HTN is the most common medical complication of
pregnancy-1-5%
2.

preeclampsia complicates 2-7% of all pregnancies

-14% in twin pregnancies

3.

women with chronic HTN or renal disease=25% risk for

preeclampsia

4.

rate has risen since early 1990s

5.

2nd only to emboli as cause of maternal mortality

123

17

B.

C.

6.

predisposes mother for eclampsia, DIC, abruptio,

hepatic failure, ARDS, cerebral hemorrhage

7.

maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality are

highest when eclampsia is seen early in gestation
(before week 28), moms over the age of 35,
multigravidas, and chronic HTN or renal disease

8.

fetus at risk from abruptio placentae, PTL, IUGR, and

acute hypoxia

Risk fa ctors
1.
chronic renal disease
2.

chronic hypertension

3.

family h/o PIH

4.

multifetal gestation

5.

primigravida

6.

maternal age <19 yrs, >35 yrs

7.

diabetes

8.

Rh incompatibility

10.

obesity

Classific ation / assessm ent

1.
2 basic types-chronic HTN and pregnancy-induced
a.
CHTN-predates the pregnancy or HTN that
continues beyond 42 weeks postpartum
b.
PIH/ GHTN-onset of HTN generally after the 20th
week
may occur independently or simultaneously
2.

preeclampsia
a.
pregnant specific
b.
HTN after week 20
c.
multisystem vasopastic disease-HTN with
Proteinuria (1-2+)

124

18
d.
e.
f.
g.

characterized mild or severe

BP is first warning sign- 140/90
pathologic edema in face, hands, or abdomen
or weight gain >2 kg/week
urine and BP checks need 2 + results to be
classified preeclampsia

3.

severe preeclampsia
a.
BP 160/110
b.
> 3+ or 4+ on dipstick: 5g 24 hr urine collection
c.
oliguria-<400-500 ml/dy
d.
visual disturbances/headaches/altered LOC
e.
hepatic involvement
f.
platelets-thrombocytopenia
g.
pulmonary/cardiac involvement
h.
development of HELLP syndrome
i.
severe fetal growth retardation

4.

eclampsia
a.
onset of seizure activity in the woman diagnosed
with PIH with no neurologic pathology
b.
may be initial sign patient has PIH

5.

HELLP-hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low PLT

a.
variant of severe preeclampsia
b.
appears in 2-12% of women with severe
preeclampsia
c.
maternal mortality-as high as 24%
d.
seen more frequently in older women,
Caucasians, and multiparous women
e.
65% will have c/o epigastric/RUQ pain
f.
50% will have N & V
g.
can be normotensive and without proteinuria
h.
thought to be caused by arterial vasospasms,
endothelial damage, and platelet aggregation

6.

chronic HTN
a.
HTN before pregnancy or diagnosed before
week 20
b.
also considered chronic if HTN lasts longer than
6 weeks PP
c.
considered mild if diastolic remains below 110
d.
drug of choice: Aldomet (methyldopa)

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19

D.

7.

chronic HTN with superimposed preeclampsia

a.
BP with systolic 30 mm Hg, diastolic 15 mm Hg
b.
with proteinuria and generalized edema

8.

transient HTN
a.
development of HTN during pregnancy or
in the first 24 hours post partum
b.
no other S & S of preeclampsia

Pathophysiology / etiology
BP vasospams
placental perfusion
endothelial cell activation
vasoconstriction

activation of
coagulation
cascade

intravascular
fluid
redistribution

decreased organ perfusion

E.

1.

mild preeclampsia
or eclampsia

2.

reflects alterations in normal adaptations of pregnancy

a.
increase blood plasma volume
b.
vasodilation
c.
decreased systemic vascular resistance
d.
elevated cardiac output
e.
decreased colloid osmotic pressure

3.

main pathogenic factor is not

as a result of vasospasm

severe preeclampsia

HELLP

BP but poor perfusion

HELLP syndrom e
1.
is a laboratory, not clinical, diagnosis
a.
platelets < 100,000/mm3
b.
liver enzymes
-AST-aspartate aminotransferase
-ALT-alanine aminotransferase
c.
some evidence of hemolysis

126

20

d.

2.

F.

-elevated bili level & burr cells on smear

unlike DIC, coagulation panel normal

complications reported with HELLP include:

a.
renal failure
b.
pulmonary edema
c.
ruptured liver hematoma
d.
DIC
e.
abruptio placentae

Nursing pro c ess

1.
recognized risk factors
2.

history
a.
headache
b.
epigastric pain
c.
visual disturbances

3.

assess BP, wt., edema, proteinuria, and DTRs

a.
edema on a scale of 0-+4
b.
DTR-patella and bicep, for clonus

4.

fetal assessment

5.

uterine tonicity

6.

vaginal exam

7.

lab tests
a.
CBC
b.
clotting factors
c.
liver enzymes
d.
chem panel: uric acid, creatinine, BUN, RBS
e.
type and screen
f.
urinalysis or 24 hr proteinuria

8.

nursing diagnoses
a.
anxiety
b.
altered tissue perfusion
c.
knowledge deficit
d.
risk for impaired gas exchange
e.
risk for CO

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21
f.
g.
G.

risk of injury to fetus or mother

ineffective coping R/T powerlessness

Pharm a c ology and relate d nursing interventions

1.
mild PIH
a.
rest at home, on L side when possible
b.
teach mom to assess BP, dip urine, fetal
kick count
c.
possible frequent NSTs
d.
may want to encourage low Na diet
2.

severe PIH or HELLP

a.
immediate birth or conservative management
b.
labs as directed
c.
wt., foley, strict I & O, vag. exam, abd. palpation
d.
EFM
e.
bed rest, quiet, dark room, no visitors
f.
padded side rails
g.
suction equipment at bedside
h.
toxemia box in room-resuscitation meds
i.
continue to monitor during the intra to
postpartum

3.

pharmacology
a.
magnesium sulfate
-helps prevent or treat convulsions
-interferes with acetylcholine at synapses
- neuromuscular and CNS irritability
- cardiac conduction
-increases blood flow in uterus to protect the
fetus
-increases prostracylins to prevent uterine
vasoconstriction
-secondary infusion
loading dose-4-6 gms over 20-30 min
maintenance-1-3 gms/hr
-mag level in 4-6 hrs (therapeutic level 4-8 mg/dl)
-frequently ck RR, UO, DTRs
-have calcium gluconate at bedside (antidote)
-toxicity-nausea, flushing, reflexes, slurred
speech, and muscle weakness
-may be given IM for transport yet absorption
rate isnt controlled, IM is more painful
-diuresis within 24 hours is an + prognostic sign

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22

b.
c.
d.

-if eclampsia develops-2-6 gms MgSO4 IV push

over 3-5 minutes
amobarbital sodium-sedative
-250 mg slow push over 3-5 min
diazepam-occasionally used
-may cause phlebitis, venous thrombosis
-if given too rapidly-apnea, cardiac death
antihypertensives
-IV hydralazine (Apresoline)
-labetalol HCl, methyldopa, or nifedipine

01/13

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1
Pregnancy at Risk, Part 2
Lecture 9
VIII.

Maternal-fetal blood incompatibilities

(See High Risk Neonates)

IX.

Diabetes mellitus
A.
Classifications
1.
Type 1: pancreatic cell destruction-insulin deficient
prone to ketoacidosis (acidosis R/T excessive ketones)

B.

2.

Type 2: insulin resistant, relative insulin deficiency

most prevalent form of DM, etiology unknown
a.
develops gradually, may miss S & S
(polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia)
b.
increase risk if obese or fat around abdomen
c.
age, sedentary lifestyle, HTN, previous GDM
d.
runs in families

3.

Pregestational: Type 1 or 2 that exists before preg.

4.

Gestational: any degree of glucose intolerance with

onset or recognition during pregnancy
a.
may or may not be insulin dependent
b.
should be reclassified 6 weeks PP

Pathophysiology
1.
Group of metabolic diseases characterized by
hyperglycemia R/T defects in insulin secretion, action,
or both
2.

Beta cells insulin moves glucose into adipose and

muscle cells to be used for energy

3.

or ineffective insulin hyperglycemia

hypersosmolarity
intracellular fluid into the vascular
system
blood volume excess UO with glycouria

4.

cells burns proteins/fats for energy=ketoacidosis

5.

weight loss from breakdown of fat and muscle tissues

6.

complications: retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy,

and premature atherosclerosis

130

7.

C.

metabolic factors:
a.
1st trimester- estrogen/progesterone= insulin
production= peripheral glucose utilization
b.
tissue glycogen stores= hepatic glucose
production (this can affect insulin needs)
c.
2nd & 3rd trimesters- levels of hPL, estrogen,
progesterone, prolactin, cortisol, and insulinase
= insulin resistance (they are insulin antagonists)
(antagonists-counteract the action of another)
(synergists-enhances the action of another)
d.
maternal insulin requirements may double or
quadruple by 36 weeks of pregnancy
(leaves abundant supply of glucose for fetus)

Risk factors
1.
best predictor of pregnancy outcome=degree of
maternal control of glucose levels
2.

glycemic control in early pregnancy=SAB

3.

glycemic control late in pregnancy =

a.
macrosomic fetus = risk birth trauma
b.
risk for C/S
c.
for PIH or preeclampsia
d.
risk for polyhydramnios overdistention of uterus
which can lead to PTL or PROM
e.
infections
f.
ketoacidosis (DKA) fatty acids move from fat to
circulation oxidized ketone bodies into
circulation
blood glucose and
ketones=osmotic diuresis= fluids/electrolytes,
volume depletion, cellular dehydration=
maternal and fetal death

4.

fetal risks
a.
stillborn-etiology unk, ?chronic hypoxia
b.
congenital anomalies (6-10% chance)
-cardiac most common
c.
macrosomia/birth traumas
d.
IUGR R/T vascular disease
e.
RDS

131

3
f.

D.

hypocalcemia, hypoglycemia,
hypomagnesemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and
polycythemia

Nursing Process
1.
Lab work
a.
euglycemia=65-130 mg/dl
b.
assessment of glycosylated hemoglobin A1c
-helps assess level of hemoglobin saturated
with glucose caused by hyperglycemia
-good control 7%
->10 % = risk for fetal anomalies (20-25%)
c.
urine screen for UTI, proteinuria, creatinine
clearance
d.
thyroid function screening
2.

Educate to test glucose at home-dietary changes

3.

Dietary management based on blood sugar tests

-1st trimester-2200 kcal/dy
-2nd and 3rd trimester-2500 kcal/dy
-40-45% CHO, 12-20% protein, 35-40% fats
-need bedtime snack to maintain BS level thru night

4.

Exercise after meals to prevent drop in BS

5.

Insulin therapy
a.
1st trimester, insulin dosage may decrease
b.
oral agents may be viable solution
-Glyburide (sulfonylurea) insulin secretion
-doesnt cross the placenta
insulin resistance =
c.
2nd and 3rd trimesters
insulin dosage
d.
Some insulin can cross the placenta
e.
various regimens followed
f.
insulin pump may be used during pregnancy
g.
see California Diabetes and Pregnancy Program
-CDAPP
-Sweet Success

6.

Fetal surveillance to monitor well-being

a.
NSTs, BPPs, U/S, kick counts
b.
MSAFP
c.
Fetal echocardiogram (18-22 weeks)

132

E.

7.

Urine testing at home

a.
test first morning urine
b.
recheck if meal missed, ill, or BS > 200mg/dl
c.
spilling small amounts of ketones ok
d.
spilling large amounts of ketones-CALL MD

8.

Intrapartum
a.
follow hospitals P & P
b.
watch for dehydration, hypo/hyperglycemia
c.
mainline usually D5LR with insulin on secondary
infusion
d.
sched C/S in morning-hold AM insulin, NPO

9.

Postpartum
a.
insulin needs drop dramatically with removal of
placenta
b.
several days before CHO homeostasis
c.
complications
-preeclampsia
-eclampsia
-hemorrhage
-infection
d.
breastfeeding encouraged
-helps use up CHO in milk production
-risk for hypoglycemia
-risk for mastitis
-may reduce infants risk for DM
-may need to recalculate insulin dose
e.
discuss contraceptive methods
-barrier method safest
-OCs have risk of thromboembolic/vascular
complications
-use of IUD risks infection
-tubal ligation if completed family

Gestational Diabetes
1.
4% of all pregnancies/90% of diabetic pregnancies
2.

less common in Caucasians

133

X.

3.

risk factors
a.
obese
b.
over age 30
c.
family history
d.
h/o macrosomic infant
e.
unexplained stillbirth
f.
miscarriage
g.
having an infant with congenital anomalies

4.

screening
a.
1 hour glucola-50 gram oral glucose load
-considered + if >140 mg/dl
b.
3-hour glucose tolerance test
-fasting glucose
-drink a 100 gm loading dose
-ck serum and urine every hour
-+GDM if 2 or more of the results are elevated
fasting = 95
1 hour = 180
2 hour = 155
3 hour = 140

Preexisting cardiac disease

A.
Overview
1.
CV changes that occur normally with pregnancy can
affect women with cardiac disease
a.
intravascular volume
b.
systemic vascular resistance
c.
change in CO
d.
change in intravascular volume postpartum
2.

cardiac disease complicates 1% of all pregnancies

a.
leading cause of non-OB maternal mortality
b.
4th ranking cause of maternal death

3.

some of the more common cardiac diseases

a.
mitral stenosis
b.
mitral valve prolapse
-use Inderal if symptomatic, ie: chest pain
-use abx if having regurgitation
c.
congenital heart defects, i.e. septal defect
d.
periparum cardiomyopathy
-dysfunction of the L ventricle
-seen in last month of preg or 1st 5 months PP

134

6
-mortality rate of 25-50 %
-tx-treat the symptoms
B.

C.

Classifications
1.
Class I: Asymptomatic at normal levels of activity
mortality = 1%
a.
corrected Tetralogy of Fallot
b.
pulmonic/tricuspid disease
c.
mitral stenosis (class I, II)
d.
septal defects
2.

Class II: Symptomatic with increased activity

mortality = 5-15%
a.
mitral stenosis with atrial fibrillation
b.
artificial heart valves
c.
mitral stenosis (class III, IV)
d.
uncorrected Tetralogy of Fallot
e.
aortic coarctation (uncomplicated)
f.
aortic stenosis

3.

Class III: Symptomatic with ordinary activity

mortality = 25-50%
a.
aortic coarctation (complicated)
b.
myocardial infarction
c.
Marfans syndrome
d.
true cardiomyopathy
e.
pulmonary HTN

4.

Class IV: Symptomatic at rest

Nursing Process
1.
medical care is multidisciplinary
2.

educated R/T S & S of cardiac decompensation

a.
subjective
-increasing fatigue
-difficulty breathing
-frequent cough
-palpitations
-swelling of face, feet, legs, fingers
b.
objective
-irregular, weak, rapid pulse, over 100
-progressive, generalized edema
-crackles at base of lungs

135

7
-orthopnea
-tachypnea, over 25
-moist, frequent cough
-increasing fatigue
-cyanosis of lips and nail beds
3.

identify areas that may lead to stress

4.

identity coping mechanisms

5.
6.

support groups
consultation with dietician

7.

watch for S & S of thromboembolism

a.
redness
b.
swelling
c.
tenderness
e.
pain

8.

avoid constipation and straining for BM

9.

report any S & S of infection

10.

keep all PN appts.

11.

may be put on prophylactic abx

12.

labs/studies
a.
CBC, chem panel
b.
ECG
c.
chest x-rays
d.
EFM

13.

medications
a.
heparin for anticoagulation-doesnt cross
placenta
b.
coumadin-contradindicated-teratogenic
c.
abx- risk of bacterial endocarditis
d.
diuretics to treat CHF
e.
digitalis for arrhythmias and heart failure

14.

intrapartum
a.
side lying or semi-fowlers
b.
O2 via mask

136

8
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
15.

XI.

diuretics to fluid retention

prophylactic abx
encourage pain meds to decrease stress-Epid.
monitor FHR and maternal
may use vacuum to shorten 2nd stage
no ritodrine/terbutaline for tocolysis
-may cause myocardial ischemia
no methergine

postpartum
a.
1st 24-48 hours most important for hemodynamic
stability
b.
bed rest, asst. with ADLs as needed
c.
prevent constipation
d.
breastfeeding may be contraindicated in higher
classifications of disease

Anemias
A.
Iron deficiency anemia
1.
most common
a.
< 11 g/dl in 1st
b.
< 10.5 g/dl in 2nd
c.
< 11 g/dl in 3rd

B.

C.

2.

iron for fetus comes from maternal serum

3.

oral iron supplements-30-60mg/dy

a.
clinical-325 mg ferrous sulfate tablets
b.
metabolized better with Vit. C

4.

risk to fetus
a.
LBW
b.
preterm
c.
perinatal mortality-maternal Hbg < 6g/dl

Folic acid deficiency anemia megaloblastic anemia

1.
increases risk for neural tube defect, cleft lip/palate
2.

recommended daily intake 400 microgram/day

3.

enriched foods have additional folic acid

Sickle cell anemia-recessive autosomal disease

137

9
1.

abnormal hemoglobin in the blood

2.

recessive, hereditary, familial hemolytic

a.
African-Americans (10% have trait)
b.
Mediterranean ancestry

3.

crisis: fever, pain in abdomen, extremities

a.
attacks R/T vascular occlusion, tissue hypoxia,
edema, RBC destruction, and organ failure
b.
associated with jaundice, normochromic
anemia, reticulocytosis, + sickle cell test,
and demonstrated abnormal hemoglobin

4.

maternal/fetal risks
a.
pyelonephritis
b.
bone infection
c.
heart disease
d.
PIH
e.
fetal loss due to impaired oxygen supply

5.

tx:
a.
b.
c.
d.

folic acid-1mg/day
abx as needed
O2 and IVs
SCDs postpartum

XII.

Maternal infections
Pages 352-357
KNOW: Type of organism, S/S, tx, and implications for pregnancy
and fetussuch as:
T-toxoplasmosis-retinochoroiditis, convulsions, microcephaly
O-others-Hepatitis, HIV, syphilis-infection, SAB,
R-rubella-DM, hearing loss, glaucoma, encephalitis
C-cytomegalovirus-90% of survivors have neurological problems
H-herpes simplex-hyper/hypothermia, jaundice, seizures

XIII.

Psychosocial problems during pregnancy

A.
Preexisting psychiatric illness-effect on pregnancy
1.
women with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or
chronic depression may be on psychotropic meds
that can cross the placenta or be found in breast
milk

138

10
2.

need to weigh the benefits of therapy to risks to mom

and fetus

3.

fetal risks to medications

a.
congenital anomalies
b.
tremors
c.
hypertonicity
d.
weakness
e.
poor sucking

B.

Abuse-pp. 108, 352

C.

Substance abuse-pg. 302

1.
barriers to tx
a.
little understanding how drug effects fetus or
pregnancy
b.
delay seeking PN care
c.
stigma, shame, guilt
d.
conceal abuse
2.

legal considerations
a.
risk to unborn may = criminal charges to mom
b.
may be arrested, jailed, housed in psychiatric
hospital for rest of the pregnancy
c.
baby may be give to child protective services

3.

risks
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.

3.

SAB, preterm birth, IUGR, neonatal addiction,

neonatal neurobehavioral handicaps, AIDS,
fetal and maternal death
alcohol-FAS
cocaine-a. placenta, PTL, SGA, microencephaly
heroin-PTL, PROM, IUGR, convulsions
speed-PTL, IUGR, head circumference, altered
sleep patterns
smoking-SIDS, LBW, pediatric allergies, respiratory
dysfunction
caffeine-IUGR, LBW

case management
a.
find out about pt.s environment, past drug use,
current drug use, and support systems
b.
drug testing-blood and urine
-alcohol can go undetected in urine

139

11
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.

h.

can test neonates hair or meconium to analyze

past drug usage
screen for h/o physical abuse or psychosocial
problems
determine need for womens health services,
social services, and education for family
support groups, i.e. AA
alcohol withdrawal tx
-benzodiazepines (psychotropic-sedative)
-nutritional follow-up
-psychotherapy
methadone (synthetic opioid) controversial
-impaired blood flow to placenta
-detrimental fetal effects
-stronger withdrawal symptoms for neonate
compared to heroin

01/13

140

1
Complications of Labor and Delivery
Le cture 10
I.

Dysfunctional Labor
A.
Alterations in c ontra ction p atterns and quality
1.
Hypertonic Uterine Dysfunction
a.
usually in latent phase, before 4 cm
b.
cause unknown, maybe R/T anxiety/fear
c.
assessment
-pain out of proportion to intensity of U/C
-U/Cs in frequency but uncoordinated
d.
risk to mom
-loss of control
-exhaustion
e.
risk to fetus
-asphyxia
-passage of meconium
f.
tx
-analgesia
-rest for mom
g.
after 4-6 hours rest, usually awaken in normal
labor pattern
2.

Hypotonic Uterine Dysfunction

a.
causes
-pelvic contracture
-fetal malpresentation
-overdistention of uterus
-unknown
b.
assessment
- in U/C frequency and intensity
-during the active phase of stage 1
-uterus easily indentable between U/Cs
c.
risk to mom
-infection
-exhaustion
d.
risk to fetus
-infection
-death
e.
tx
-r/o CPD
-labor augmentation
-amniotomy
-change position, ambulation, shower

141

3.

Inadequate expulsive effort (secondary powers)

a.
causes
-regional anesthesia
-analgesia
-exhaustion
-lack of urge to push
b.
risk to mom
-surgery (C/S)
c.
risk to fetus
-asphyxia
d.
tx
-change position
-coaching
-lower epidural strength or D/C
-vacuum-asst.
-C/S
***Se e Ta ble 18-1 for a list of c omplic ations
B.

Fetal m alpositions and m alpresentations

1.
anomalies
a.
affect relationship of fetal anatomy to the
maternal pelvic capacity
2.

CPD-cephalopelvic disproportion
a.
R/T macrosomic infants
b.
maternal causes
-pelvis too small
-pelvis abnormally shaped
-pelvic deformity

3.

malpositions
a.
usually persistent OP (LOP or ROP)
b.
prolonged second stage
c.
usually c/o severe back pain
d.
may be able to change fetal position
-knee chest position
-squats
-lunges
-pelvic rocking
-rolling side to side

142

3
4.

C.

Pelvic alterations
1.
pelvic dystocia
a.
contractures (fibrosis of connective tissue in skin,
fascia, muscle, or a joint capsule) of the pelvis
b.
deformities from MVA, traumas
c.
immature pelvis in teens
2.

D.

malpresentation
a.
breech most common
-frank-thighs flexed, knees extended
-complete-thighs and knees flexed
-incomplete
one foot below the buttock or
one knee below the buttock
b.
breech presentations associated with:
-multifetal gestations
-preterm birth
-fetal and maternal anomalies
-hydramnios
c.
risk of prolapsed cord
d.
might attempt vaginal delivery in multiparas
e.
face/brow presentations
-uncommon
-associated with fetal anomalies or pelvic
contractures
-may need forcep delivery
f.
if external version fails to rotate a breech or
shoulder presentation = C/S

soft tissue dystocia

a.
placenta previa
b.
leiomyomas (fibroids)
c.
full bladder or rectum
d.
cervical edema
e.
Bandls ring (pathologic retraction ring) at the
junction of the lower and upper uterine segments

Psy chologic al alterations

1.
stress can slow or stop dilatation
-pain and lack of support stress level
-confinement in bed may make pt feel trapped
2.

stress can increase pain perception

143

4
3.

E.

stress-related hormones act on smooth muscle

a.
beta-endorphins, epinephrine, cortisol, etc
b.
decrease uterine contractility

Alterations in the length of la bor

1.
prolonged labors more frequent with moms over 40
2.

abnormal labor patterns can occur because of:

a.
CPD
b.
ineffective U/Cs
c.
pelvic contractures
d.
malpresentation of fetus
e.
analgesia/anesthesia
f.
anxiety/stress

3.

precipitous labor/delivery
a.
labor less than 3 hours from start of U/Cs
b.
maternal complications
-uterine rupture
-lacerations
-amniotic fluid embolism
-PP hemorrhage
c.
risk to fetus
-hypoxia
-intracranial hemorrhage
-bruising of head/face

pattern
prolonged latent phase

nullips
>20 hrs

multips
>14 hrs

protracted active phase dilation

<1.2 cm/hr

<1.5 cm/hr

secondary arrest: no change

>2 hrs

>2 hrs

protracted descent

<1 cm/hr

<2 cm/hr

arrest of descent

>1 hr

>1/2 hr

failure of descent

No change in second stage

precipitous labor

>5 cm/hr

10 cm/hr

144

5
F.

II.

Relate d nursing interventions

1.
support mother and family
2.

monitor mother/fetus

3.

pitocin augmentation/vacuum/C/S

Complications of the labor process

A.
Pre m ature rupture of m e mbranes (PRO M)
1.
ROM 1 hour before onset of labor

B.

2.

PPROM-occurs before 37 weeks gestation

3.

cause unknown-possibly R/T infection

a.
chorioamnionitis
b.
life threatening to fetus and mom
-mom-sepsis, death
-fetus-pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis

4.

discuss ROM protocol

a.
kick counts/EFM
c.
ck AFI

b.
d.

ck GBS status
r/o prolapsed cord

Preterm la bor- c ervic al chang e and U/ Cs b etwe en 20-37 wks

Preterm birth- c ompletion of pre gnanc y b efore wk37-p g 347
1.
risk factors
a.
demographic
-African-American
-<17 yrs old, >34 yrs old
-low SES
-unmarried
-low level of education
b.
medical risks predating pregnancy
-h/o PTL-triples the risk
-multiple abortions
-uterine anomalies
-parity-0 or >4
-low prepregnancy weight
-diabetes
-HTN
c.
medical risks with pregnancy
-multiple gestation
-infection
-incompetent cervix
-UTIs
-short interval between pregnancies
-bleeding
-anemia
-placenta previa/abruptio
-fetal anomalies
-PROM

145

6
d.

e.

behavioral/environmental risks
-DES (diethylstilbestrol) exposure
-smoking
-poor nutrition
-substance abuse
-late on no PN care
other risks
-anxiety/stress
-uterine irritability
-long working hours
-inability to rest

2.

predicting PTL
a.
fetal fibronectin-biochemical marker
-glycoproteins-found in plasma
-appear in cervical canal early/late in preg.
-appearance between 24-34 weeks gest. is
an indicator for PTL
-negative predictive value=95%
-positive predictive value=25-40%
-easier to predict who will not have PTL
-expense=$180-215
b.
salivary estriol-biochemical marker
-form of estrogen produced by fetus and present
in plasma by 9 weeks
-levels have been shown to before PTL
-negative predictive value=98%
-positive predictive value=7-25%
-expense=$90 each test
c.
endocervical length
-lengths less than 30 mm in singleton may
predict risk for PTL

3.

causes of PTL
a.
unknown and thought to be multifactorial
b.
infection major etiological factor
c.
25% are iatrogenic-intentionally delivery of fetus
-R/T health of fetus/mom
d.
25% R/T PROM followed by labor
e.
50% idiopathic (conditions without recognizable
cause) preterm births

4.

assessment
a.
contractions <10 minutes apart in frequency
b.
persistent cramping
c.
clear, pink, or brownish discharge
d.
pressure in vagina or low back

146

7
e.
f.
g.

diarrhea
cervical effacement >80%
1 cm dilated

5.

pt. education
a.
bed rest-no studies have proven its efficacy
-wt. loss
-loss of muscle tone
-calcium loss
-fatigue
-depression
-constipation
b.
notify MD of changes in S & S
c.
home uterine activity monitoring
d.
discuss lifestyle adaptations-need to
-sexual activity
-heavy lifting
-long drives
-standing more than 50% of the time
-climbing stairs
-not stopping when tired

6.

pharmacology
a.
tocolytics
-magnesium sulfate
CNS depressant
can cause respiratory depression
flushing, N & V, DTRs and BP
-terbutaline/ritodrine
beta-adrenergic receptor stimulant
helps with hypertonic contractions
tachycardia, palpitations
fetal tachycardia
-nifedipine
calcium channel blocker
headache, hypotension
-indomethacin
prostaglandin inhibitor
risk of closure of ductus arteriosus
risk of NEC or IVH

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8
b.

III.

antenatal glucocorticoids
-betamethasone-12 mg IM X 2 doses 24 hrs apart
-dexamethasone-6 mg IM 2 doses 12 hrs apart
stimulate lung maturity
promote release of enzyme to induce
surfactant production
can cause maternal infection, pulmonary
edema
can worsen HTN or GDM

Intrapartum emergencies
A.
Pla c ental a bnorm alities
1.
adherent retained placenta
a.
placenta accreta
-cotyledons invaded uterine muscle
b.
placenta increta
-chorionic villi invade the myometrium
c.
placenta percreta
-invasion of myometrium to the serosa of the
peritoneum covering of uterus
-can lead to rupture of uterus
2.

abruptio placenta

3.

vasa previa
-velamentous insertion-cord attached to membranes
-no Whartons jelly
-vessels exposes to laceration
-high incidence of fetal mortality
-Dx with U/S, palpation of vessels

4.

succenturiate
-accessory lobes of fetal villi developed
-vessels supported only by membranes
risk of retained POC
-fetal blood loss if vessel nicked

5.

battledore
-insertion at or near placental margin rather than
center
-increased risk of fetal hemorrhage

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9
B.

C.

Prola pse d umbilic al c ord

1.
umbilical cord lies below the presenting part
2.

may be occult and occur even with intact BOW

3.

frank prolapse occurs with SROM-1 out of 400 births

4.

contributing factors
a.
long cord->100 cm
b.
malpresentation
c.
transverse lie
d.
unengaged presenting part

5.

risk to fetus
a.
hypoxia
b.
CNS damage
c.
Death

6.

care management
a.
hold presenting part off cord
b.
knee-chest or Trendelenburg position
c.
delivery
-possible forcep/vacuum if 10 cm
-usually stat C/S

Uterine rupture
1.
causes of rupture
a.
previous uterine scar
-classical C/S
-myomectomy
b.
uterine trauma
c.
congenital uterine anomalies
d.
multiparas
e.
intense spontaneous U/Cs
f.
hyperstimulation of uterine muscle
g.
overdistented uterus
h.
malpresentation
i.
external/internal version
j.
forceps
2.

classifications
a.
complete
-extends through the entire uterine wall into
the peritoneal cavity/broad ligament

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10
b.

D.

incomplete
-rupture extends to peritoneum but not into
the peritoneal cavity/broad ligament

3.

S & S-may be silent or dramatic

a.
nonreassuring FHR
b.
vomiting
c.
fainting
d.
uterine tenderness
e.
sudden, sharp shooting pain
f.
hypovolemic shock
g.
hypotonic U/Cs
h.
lack of progress
i.
shoulder pain
j.
palpable fetal parts

4.

prevention
a.
no VBACs with classical uterine scar
b.
assess womans risk factors
c.
prevent hyperstimulation
d.
use of tocolytic drugs

5.

case management
a.
prepare pt for surgery-C/S, possible hysterectomy
b.
IV/oxygen
c.
type and cross for possible blood transfusion
d.
therapeutic communication/support
e.
fetal mortality>80%
f.
maternal mortality-50-75%

Uterine inversion
1.
classifications
a.
complete-protrudes
b.
incomplete-smooth mass palpated thru cervix
2.

risk factors
a.
fundal implantation of placenta
b.
leiomyomas
c.
vigorous fundal pressure
d.
abnormally adherent placental tissue

3.

S&S
a.
shock & pain
b.
hemorrhage (loss of 800-1800 ml)

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11
4.

E.

interventions
a.
manual replacement
b.
oxytocin
c.
need for surgery is rare

Amniotic fluid e mbolism

1.
amniotic fluid with particles enters maternal circulation
and obstructs pulmonary vessels
2.

caused by opening in amniotic sac or maternal uterine

vein with intrauterine pressure forcing fluid into vein

3.

maternal mortality=85%/fetal mortality=50%

4.

risk factors
a.
multiparity
b.
tumultuous labor
c.
abruptio placenta
d.
oxytocin induction
e.
fetal macrosomia
f.
fetal death in utero
g.
meconium passage

5.

case management
a.
assess for manifestations of RDS
-restlessness
-dyspnea
-cyanosis
-pulmonary edema
-respiratory arrest
b.
assess for shock
-hypotension
-tachycardia
-cardiac arrest
-hemorrhage
-uterine atony
c.
oxygenate-10 L
d.
intubate/bag with 100% oxygen
e.
CPR-30 degree angle of uterus
f.
IVs
g.
blood transfusion/tx coagulation defects
h.
foley catheter
i.
prepare for possible C/S
j.
emotional support/counseling if death occurs

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12

F.

Traum a
1.
leading nonobstetric reason for maternal mortality
2.

all female victims of childbearing age to be considered

pregnant until proven otherwise

3.

70% R/T MVAs (lack of seatbelt)-head injuries and

shock

4.

physiological differences with pregnant women

experiencing trauma
a.
physical observation less reliable
b.
CO can tolerate 1000ml blood loss
c.
no indicators until blood loss > 1500-2000 ml
d.
clinical signs dont appear until 30% of loss
of circulating volume
e.
maternal pulse over 100 bpm=abnormal

5.

types of trauma
a.
blunt abdominal trauma
-MVA, battering, falls, exsanguination
-fetal skull fx or ICH
-ck for abrupted placenta
-pelvic fx can cause injury to fetus
-uterine rupture rare
b.
penetrating abdominal trauma
-bullet, stab wound
-direct fetal injury from bullet, requires surgery
-fetal injury from stab wound
-better chances if injury occurs in upper maternal
abdomen
c.
thoracic trauma-25% of trauma deaths
-maternal life threatened by pulmonary
contusion
-can cause pneumo/hemothorax

6.

fetal death R/T maternal death or abrupted placenta

a.
C/S needed in most cases
b.
if maternal death occurs, C/S within 20 minutes

7.

other causes of trauma: burns, assaults

8.

complicates 8% of all pregnancies

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13

9.

G.

IV.

tx: supportive care

a.
ABCs
b.
oxygen 10-12 liters
c.
large bore IVs-14-16 gauge
f.
LR or NS 3:1 ratio- 3 ml for every 1 am EBL over
30-60 minutes
g.
may give O negative if type unknown
h.
lateral positioning
i.
assess Glasgow coma scale
j.
focus on abdomen
k.
insert NG tube
l.
check for abrupted placenta
m.
fetal assessment testing-U/S
n.
peritoneal lavage-ck for blood, if +, laparotomy
-if -, LR infused thru cath/fluid ck for cell count
o.
Rh negative women get Rhogam

Should er dysto cia

1.
increase risk of maternal/fetal morbidity/mortality
2.

fetal head is born but anterior shoulder cant pass

under pubic arch

3.

fetopelvic disproportion or maternal pelvic

abnormalities may be the cause

4.

may use McRoberts maneuver-legs flexed, knees on

abdomen

5.

may use Gaskin maneuver-all-fours-hands and knees

6.

may use Mazzanti or Rubin techniques to deliver

shoulder
a.
RN assists with the suprapubic pressure
b.
assess newborn for fx of clavicle/humerus
c.
assess mom for hemorrhage

Obstetrical Instrumentation and Procedures

A.
Amniotomy-ARO M (artificial rupture of m e mbranes)
1.
most frequently used method of labor induction
2.

induces labor when cervix is favorable or augments

a slowing labor progress

153

14

B.

3.

labor usually begins 12 hours post rupture-if prolonged,

can lead to infection-Ck temp q 2 hours

4.

can be used in combination with oxytocin

5.

explain to pt that procedure is painless but might feel

increase in vaginal pain R/T movement of fetus

6.

presenting fetal part must be engaged in pelvis and

applied to cervix to prevent cord prolapse

7.

assess color, odor, consistency and quantity of fluid

Induction and augm entation of la bor

1.
chemical agents
a.
PG gel-prostaglandin gel
Cervidil/Prepidil/Prostin E2-dinoprostone
-helps to ripen (soften and thin) cervix
-may initiate labor without further medications
-may be used to terminate pregnancy
-adverse reactions
headaches, N & V, diarrhea, fever
hypotension, hyperstimulation of uterus
fetal passage of meconium
b.
Cytotec (misoprostol)-synthetic prostaglandin E1
-not FDA approved for cervical ripening
c.
oxytocin
-hormone produced by posterior pituitary gland
-stimulates uterine contractions
-used to induce or augment labor
-indications for use
suspected fetal jeopardy
dystocia
postdates
maternal medical problems
fetal demise
-contraindications for use
CPD, cord prolapse, transverse lie
nonreassuring FHR
placenta previa or vasa previa
classical uterine incision
active genital herpes
invasive CA of the cx

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15
d.
e.
f.
2.

C.

mechanical methods
a.
dilators
b.
amniotomy

Version
1.
external
a.
attempt to rotate fetus from a malpresentation
b.
usually done at or after 37 weeks
c.
U/S scanning before to ck fetus and placenta
d.
may use a tocolytic agent like terbutaline
e.
obtain informed consent-usually done in L & D
due to risk of complications
f.
MD or CNM give gentle, constant pressure to
abdomen to rotate presenting fetal part
g.
Rh moms may receive Rhogam due to the risk
of fetomaternal bleeding
2.

D.

infusion done on IV pump

watch for hyperstimulation
assess fetal well being and maternal pain level

internal
a.
MD inserts hand into the uterus and changes
position or presentation
b.
may be used in multifetal pregnancies to rotate
second fetus
c.
maternal/fetal injury possible
d.
RN role to monitor FHR and support mother

Episiotomy
1.
incision in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal outlet
2.

types
a.
median-midline
-most commonly used
-effective, easily repaired
-can possibly extend into rectum
b.
mediolateral
-prevents 4th degree laceration
-repair most difficult
-more pain to mom

155

16

E.

F.

3.

pros
prevents tearing
decreases stage 2
enlarges vagina

cons
lacerations can occur
pain/discomfort
lateral position can
control head

4.

less rate of episiotomies with CNM vs. MD

Forc e ps
1.
uses paired curved blades to asst. delivery of head
2.

maternal indications for use

a.
second stage arrest
b.
cardiac moms
c.
poor pushing effort/fatigue/anesthesia

3.

fetal indications for use

a.
distress
b.
abnormal presentation-asynclitic
c.
delivery of head during breech delivery

4.

conditions
a.
fully dilated
b.
empty bladder
c.
engaged presenting fetal part
d.
vertex
e.
ROM
f.
No CPD

5.

care management
a.
assess FHR before and after delivery
b.
Pedi MD at delivery
c.
assess mother for lacerations, urinary retention
d.
assess baby for facial bruising, abrasions, palsy

V a cuum
1.
attachment of vacuum cup and use of negative
pressure
2.

indications/conditions the same as use of forceps

3.

follow hospitals P & P R/T method, suction pressure,

duration, and charting

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17
4.
G.

newborns-ck for caput, cephalohematoma, scalp

laceration

Surgic al Birth
1.
birth of the fetus thru a transabdominal incision in the
uterus
2.

term cesarean from Latin caedo-to cut

3.

C/S rate-20-30%-higher in women over the age of 35

4.

rate of VBACs had lead to

C/Ss but might

5.

purpose to preserve health or life of mom or baby

6.

in C/S rate R/T

a.
increased EFM
b.
epidural use
d.
of repeat C/S
e.
AMA moms
f.
private insurance/private hospitals
g.
moms with high SES

7.

indications for C/S

a.
fetal distress/intolerance of labor
b.
CPD/malpresentation/malposition
c.
placental abnormalities
d.
umbilical cord prolapse
e.
dysfunctional labor pattern/first stage arrest
f.
multiple gestation
g.
active genital herpes
h.
uncontrolled HTN
i.
PIH/preeclampsia

8.

type of incisions
a.
skin-vertical or horizontal (Pfannenstiel, bikini)
b.
uterus-vertical (classical), low vertical, and
horizontal (low transverse)
-classical-faster to perform, is performed in other
countries, contraindication for VBAC
-transverse-easier, less blood loss, decrease risk
for infections, less likely to rupture, may
attempt VBAC with next pregnancy

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18
9.

risks/complications
a.
aspiration
b.
pulmonary embolism
c.
wound infection
d.
wound dehiscence
e.
thrombophlebitis
f.
hemorrhage
g.
UTI
h.
injury to bladder or bowel or fetus
i.
anesthesia complications
j.
decreased satisfaction with the birth process
k.
loss of ability to accomplish vaginal deliveries
l.
increase financial expense
m.
longer hospital stay
n.
bonding and breastfeeding may be delayed

10.

types of anesthesia
a.
regional blocks
-epidural-most common, feel pressure, no pain
-spinal-no pain or pressure
b.
general
-higher risk of complications

11.

pre/intra/postoperative care-in the textbook

01/13

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1
Complications of the Puerperium
Le cture 11
1.

Postpartum Hemorrhage
A.
Definition /Risk fa ctors
1.
500 ml or more blood loss after a vaginal delivery
2.

1000ml or more blood loss after a C/S delivery

3.

10% change in Hct from admission to PP

4.

or need for transfusion

5.

early PP hemorrhage-in the first 24 hours

a.
uterine atony
-marked hypotonia
-90% of PPH cases R/T atony
-associated with
overdistended uterus
mag. Sulfate
trauma
anesthesia
infections
prolonged oxytocin usage
rapid/prolonged labor
b.
retained placenta
c.
placenta accreta
d.
uterine rupture
e.
uterine inversion
f.
lower genital tract lacerations
-cervix, vagina, perineum
1st-4th degree laceration of perineum
-associated with
precipitous delivery
operative birth
congenital anomalies
contracted pelvis
infection
varicosities (distended, swollen veins)

159

g.

h.
i.

hematomas-collection of blood in connective

tissue
-vulvar-most common, visible, painful
-vaginal-assoc. with forceps, episiotomy
-subperitoneal-life threatening-assoc. with
uterine artery branches/vessels in the
broad ligament
-cervical-usually shallow, min. bleeding
infections
coagulopathies

6.

late PP hemorrhage-after 24 hrs to 6 weeks PP

a.
subinvolution of the uterus
-delayed return of the enlarged uterus to
normal size
-caused by infection, retained placenta
-S & S: prolonged lochia, excessive bleeding
palpable boggy uterus, fundal
height greater than expected
b.
retained POC
c.
endometritis

7.

dark blood-probably venous-varices/superficial lac.

8.

bright red blood-arterial-deep laceration of cx

B.

C omplic ation-Hypovole mic sho ck

C.

C are m ana g e m ent

1.
if hypotonic uterus
a.
massage
b.
express clots-1 gm=1ml (weigh p a ds)
c.
assess for tachycardia, BP, tachypnea, pale
cool skin, in LOC, lethargy
d.
large bore IVs-LR 1000 ml with 10-40 units pitocin
-watch for water intoxication, N & V
e.
empty bladder or place Foley cath
f.
O2 10-12L/min via mask if oxygen saturation low
g.
Methergine 0.2 mg IM-produces sustained U/C
-elevates BP, N & V, headache
-may exacerbate cardiac disease
h.
if unsuccessful-prostaglandin F2a (Hemabate)
given IM or intramyometrially

160

i.

j.

D.

-headache, N & V, diarrhea, fever

-may aggravate asthmatics
herbal remedies
-witch hazel
-motherwort-promotes U/C, vasocontrictive
-blue cohosh-oxytocic
-nettle- available Vit. K, Hgb
-Shepards purse-promotes U/C
-red raspberry leaves-promotes U/C
follow-up with labs
-CBC
-coag panel
-type and cross match

2.

bleeding with contracted uterus

a.
assess for clots in lower uterine segment
b.
inspection of vagina, cervix, perineum
c.
suture bleeding lacerations
d.
for hematoma
-cold packs
-ligation of bleeding vessel

3.

uterine inversion
a.
reposition uterus
b.
tx shock
c.
oxytocin
d.
broad spectrum abx
e.
NG tube if concerned R/T paralytic ileus

4.

subinvolution
a.
oxytocin/ergonovine
b.
D & C if placenta fragments retained

Te a ching
1.
normal lochia progression
2.

review factors associated with hemorrhage

3.

check for bladder distention

4.

inspect perineum/vaginal pads

5.

assess fundus

161

4
6.
II.

if S & S change, call MD immediately

Thromboembolic disorders
A.
Classific ations
1.
superficial venous thrombosis
a.
most common type PP
b.
involves superficial saphaneous vein

B.

C.

D.

2.

deep vein thrombosis

a.
most common type during pregnancy
b.
involves veins from foot to iliofemoral

3.

pulmonary embolism
a.
blood clot dislodged-carried to pulmonary artery
b.
occludes vessel-obstruct blood flow to lungs

Incid enc e / etiology

1.
superficial venous thrombosis-1 out of 500-750 women
2.

declined R/T early ambulation

3.

causes: venous stasis, hypercoagulation, & injury to

blood vessel

4.

risk factors: C/S, obesity, AMA over 35 yrs, h/o DVT, DM,
smoker, varicose veins

Clinic al m anifestations
1.
superficial-pain/tenderness/warmth/redness
2.

deep-unilateral leg pain/calf tenderness/swelling

3.

pulmonary-dyspnea/tachypnea/apprehension/cough
tachycardia/hemoptysis/pleuritic chest pain

C ase m ana g e m ent

1.
diagnosing
a.
Homans sign-can be false positive
b.
Doppler U/S (VUS)
c.
venography-less common-exposes mom/fetus
to radiation
d.
pulmonary arteriogram
2.

analgesic-antiinflammatory agent (i. e. Motrin)

162

III.

3.

rest, elevation, warm packs, elastic stockings (TEDS)

4.

DVT-tx with anticoagulants-IV heparin po Warfarin

5.

PE-IV heparin therapy, supportive care

6.

if Coumadin ordered-need OC therapy

-teratog enic to fetus

Infections
A.
Risk Fa ctors
-C/S
-prolonged labor
-poor health status
-OB trauma
-pre-existing vag. infection
-manual removal of placenta
B.

-PPROM
-multiple vaginal exams
-FSE/IUPC
-chorioamnionitis
-vacuum/forceps delivery
-lapse in aseptic technique

Classific ations
1.
puerperal sepsis-any infection of genital canal within
6 weeks of miscarriage, abortion, or birth
2.

endometritis-infection of the lining of the uterus

a.
most common PP infection
b.
usually starts at placental site
c.
higher incidence with C/S
d.
most frequent culprits: GBS, chlamydia

3.

parametritis (pelvic cellulitis)

a.
involves connective tissue of broad ligament
b.
if spreads to peritoneum=peritonitis
c.
may be result of pelvic vein thrombophlebitis

4.

wound infection
a.
often develops at home
b.
C/S site, episiotomy, laceration site
c.
broad-spectrum abx may be used

5.

UTIs
a.
occur in 2-4% of PP women
b.
risk factors: Foley, epidural, freq. exams, C/S
c.
most frequent culprit: E. coli

163

6
6.

C.

D.

IV.

mastitis
a.
affects 5-10%, most first-time mothers
b.
develops unilaterally
c.
usually Staph aureus, E. coli, Streptococcus
d.
if organism is Candida oral thrush in babies

M anifestations
1.
fever, chills,

pulse, fatigue, lethargy, pain, tenderness

2.

profuse foul-smelling lochia, leukocytosis,

3.

wound separation, dehiscence

4.

dysuria, frequency, urgency

5.

redness, warmth

sed rate

C ase m ana g e m ent

1.
abx appropriate for organism-improve hydration
2.

encourage proper perineal hygiene

3.

rest, analgesics, supportive care

a.
warm blankets
b.
sitz bath
c.
Tucks pads
d.
cool compresses to peri

4.

continue breastfeeding or pumping breasts

5.

reinforce good handwashing techniques

6.

consider I & D for wound if needed

7.

assist with ADLs or baby care

Psychiatric disorders
A.
PP Blues
1.
50-80% of women experience the baby blues
2.

emotionally labile, cry often and for no reason

3.

peaks day 5, usually ends day 10

164

B.

4.

mild depression, fatigue, poor concentration, H/A

5.

etiology unknown

6.

feeling overwhelmed with parental responsibility

7.

let-down feeling, lack connection of mom to fetus

8.

needs to learn coping strategies, seek support grps

9.

5-30% of this group will experience PP depression

PP d e pression-PP M ajor Mood Disord er

1.
intense, pervasive sadness, severe/labile mood swings
2.

symptoms rarely disappear without help

3.

feel intense fear, anger, anxiety, and despondency

4.

feelings of guilt/inadequacy fuel worry of being

incompetent parent

5.

odd food cravings, binge eating, sleeping heavily

6.

distinguishing feature: irritability

7.

prominent feature: rejection of the infant R/T

jealousy

8.

may have thoughts about harming the baby/self

9.

with tx, gradually improves in 6 months

10.

Tx
a.
b.
c.
d.

psychotherapy
antidepressants
anxiolytic agents
electroconvulsive therapy

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8
C.

PP d e pression with psy chotic fe atures (PP psy chosis)

1.
depression, delusions, and thoughts of harming
infant or self
2.

occurs in 1-2 of 1000 births/up to 50% chance to

reoccur with subsequent births

3.

behavior evident within 1-3 months PP

4.

initial complaints: agitation, fatigue, insomnia,

restlessness, emotionally labile-inability to move or work

5.

then suspiciousness, confusion, incoherence, irrational

statements, and obsessive concerns R/T infants health

6.

delusions in 50% of cases, hallucinations in 25%

7.

severe delusions/hallucinations will command mom to

kill infant or have her believe the baby is possessed by
the devil

8.

nursing staff should be on alert for mothers who are

agitated, overactive, confused, or suspicious

9.

course of syndrome similar to that seen in people

with mood disorders

10.

psychiatric emergency: antidepressants and lithium

11.

mother may not be able to breastfeed on certain

medications

12.

will probably need psychiatric hospitalization

13.

use screening tools: PP depression-pp 851-853

14.

follow-up with advanced practice psychiatric RN

a.
home visits
b.
meet with mental health therapist
c.
support groups

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9
V.

Loss and Grief

A.
Situational life crises
1.
infertility

B.

2.

premature labor/birth

3.

C/section

4.

loss of control during birth process

5.

birth of a boy when expecting a girl/visa versa

6.

birth of a handicapped child

7.

maternal death-7-8 out of 100,000 women

8.

fetal death-6.8 out of 1000 births

9.

neonatal death-27,000 yearly

Phases of grief-(d enial, ang er, b arg aining, d e pression,

a c c e ptanc e)
1.
acute distress
a.
loss of identity as parent
b.
loss of a dream/hope
c.
state of shock/numbness
d.
confusion, disbelief, denial
e.
may have outburst of emotion or lack affect
f.
need to accept the loss
g.
normal functioning impeded/hard to make
decisions
h.
may need help with funeral arrangements
2.

intense grief
a.
loneliness, emptiness, guilt, yearning, anger
b.
have to accommodate the changes the
loss has created-i.e. the nursery, clothes
c.
have to return to work-possibly meet
insensitive coworkers/family
d.
difficulty handling leakage of breast milk-a
reminder of loss
e.
guilt feelings may intensify if mother thinks she
is being punished for a prior bad act
f.
responses: anger, bitterness, resentment

167

10
g.
h.
3.

C.

focused anger on health care team for not

saving the infants life
physical symptoms: H/A, fatigue, dizziness,
backaches

reorganization
a.
search for a meaning to the tragedy
b.
improved function at home and work
c.
start to enjoy simple pleasures without guilt
d.
reestablishing relationships
e.
bittersweet grief-grief response occurring with
reminders of the loss
f.
grief can also be triggered by subsequent births

C ommunic ation and c aring

1.
actualize the loss
2.

provide time to grieve

3.

interpret normal feelings/allow for individual differences

4.

provide for the cultural/spiritual needs of parents

5.

assist with their physical comfort

6.

offer options
a.
see and hold the baby
b.
bath and dress the baby
c.
privacy
d.
visitation for other family/friends
e.
religious rituals
f.
special memorials/pictures

01/13

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1
Disorders of the Female/Male Reproductive Systems
Le cture 12
I.

Breast Masses
A.
Scre ening for bre ast m asses
1.
Breast self exams
a.
best if done 5-7 days after menses has stopped
b.
if periods are not regular, chose the same day
each month
c.
while on back, palpate each breast in a circular
or vertical motion to cover whole breast
d.
use finger pads to ck for indentations, change in
contour/texture, lumps
e.
compress nipple to ck for discharge
f.
may also do while standing/in the shower
g.
note size and shape usually equal but not always
symmetrical
h.
vary with womans age, nutritional status, and
heredity
i.
contour should be smooth without puckering
or dimpling
j.
assess nipples for shape, direction, rashes,
ulcerations, and discharge
k.
90% of brst lumps found by women
-20-25% will be malignant
2.

B.

Exam by clinician
a.
usually done with yearly pelvic exam
b.
should not be on period at time of exam
c.
may request mammogram for women with
dense breast tissue or palpable changes
-mammograms-ACS guidelines
annually age 40 and over if healthy and with no
risk factors-sooner if risk factors present

Benign Bre ast Disord ers

1.
Fibroadenoma
a.
occurs in women from puberty to menopause
b.
risk factors
-nulliparity
-low parity
-later menopause
-estrogen therapy
-family h/o of brst CA
c.
masses are solid and made of connective tissue
d.
cause unknown
e.
usually solitary lump < 1cm to 15 cms in diameter
f.
lump may be tender during menses
g.
diagnosed by mammogram, U/S, MRI
h.
doesnt respond to changes in diet/hormones
i.
may need surgical excision if lump suspicious or
symptoms are severe

169

2.

Fibrocystic breast condition

a.
most common breast problem-mostly found in upper,
inner quadrant of breast
b.
characterized by lumpiness, with/without tenderness, and
may be associated with changes in menstruation
c.
70% nonproliferative (benign growing cells)
d.
others are proliferative lesions with atypical hyperplasia
( risk of brst CA)
e.
risk of brst CA with relative having brst CA
f.
etiology-unknown-possibly R/T imbalance of hormones
g.
usually in both breasts but may be singular
h.
S & S develop one week before menses
-dull, heavy pain
-sense of fullness
-increasing tenderness
i.
cysts are usually soft, well differentiated, movable
j.
deeper cysts may not be differentiated from carcinomas
k.
U/S to determine if fluid filled-if so-aspirate
l.
if solid, mammogram followed by fine needle aspiration
(FNA) or core biopsy
m.
management
-dietary changes- caffeine
- Na intake
-Vit. B, C, and E supplements
-use NSAIDS
-some relief with smoking/alcohol intake
-supportive bra
-heat packs to breasts

3.

Ductus ectasia
a.
inflammation of ducts behind nipple
b.
etiology-unknown
c.
occurs most often in perimenopausal women
d.
characterized by thick, sticky nipple discharge either white,
brown, green, or purple in color
e.
other S & S: burning pain, itching, palpable mass
behind nipple
f.
workup: mammo, aspiration, culture of fluid
g.
Tx: symptomatic
-no stimulation
-good breast hygiene
-I & D if abscess develops
-abx
-may need affected duct excised

4.

Intraductal papillomas
a.
found in women 30-50 years of age
b.
rare, benign lesion in the terminal nipple ducts
-may be too small to palpate (2-3 cm)
c.
may note nipple discharge-serosanguinous
d.
do fluid Pap smear of nipple discharge
e.
Tx: excision

170

3
C.

Bre ast c anc er- C anc er.org (Am eric an C anc er Society)
1.
Pathophysiology
a.
most common infiltrating ductal carcinoma
-abnormal cells grow in the epithelial cells which
line the mammary ducts
-needs 5-9 years to be palpable
b.
noninvasive if stays in duct (ductal carcinoma in situ or
DCIS)
c.
invasive if penetrates the tissue around the duct
d.
invasion of lymphatic channels/lymph ducts carry
abnormal cells to lymph and to metastatic sites
e.
staging of disease must include lymph node examination,
especially axillary nodes
f.
metastatic sites include bone, lungs, brain, liver
2.

Etiology/risk factors/incidence
a.
exact cause unclear
b.
risk with of womans age
c.
other risk factors-family history
-previous h/o brst CA
-family history
-h/o ovarian, endometrial, colon, or thyroid CA
-early menarche (before age 12)
-later menopause (after age 55)
-nulliparity
-first preg. age 3
-HRT
-obesity
-h/o benign breast disease with hyperplasia
-Caucasians
-African-Americans have a higher mortality rate due to late
diagnosis
-sedentary lifestyle
-high SES
d.
incidence
-in US, 1 out of 8 women will develop brst CA
-risk factors help identify less than 30% of women
-5% of brst CA attributed to heredity
- risk for women with abnormal BRCA1/BRCA2 genes
-testing expensive
-often not covered by insurance
-debate R/T prophylactic mastectomies
or Tamofixen use
- risk of brst CA with use of HRT
-occurs in men < 1 %

3.

Clinical manifestations
a.
physical
-most lumps in upper outer quadrant
-may feel lump or thickening of brst
-hard and fixed, soft and spongy
-well-defined or irregular borders
-may cause dimpling due to fixed to skin (orange peel)
-may have nipple discharge-bloody or clear

171

4
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.

psychosocial
-denial
-grief and loss behaviors
mammogram/U/S/MRI
nipple discharge exam-culture/specimen to lab
ductogram-fine plastic tube placed into duct,
contrast media injected, assess duct
FNA
biopsy-aspiration or core-may use guide wire
Triple test-physical exam, mammogram, FNA
-if any benign-98% of lesion being benign
staging-TNM-T=size, N=nodes, M=metastases
-Stage 0-ductal carcinoma (in situ)-earliest form
-Stage 1-2 cm tumor/hasnt spread
-Stage 2-tumor >2 cm-in axillary nodes on same
side
-Stage 3-tumor >5 cm-spread to lymph nodeslocalized spread, no other organs
-Stage 4-metastasis to distant-bones, lungs, liver
lymph nodes not local

4.

Nursing diagnoses
a.
pain R/T surgical procedure
b.
risk for infection
c.
body-image disturbance R/T loss of body part

5.

Management
a.
surgery
-lumpectomy (tylectomy, partial mastectomy)
-removal of tumor
-removal of small surrounding area
-sampling of axillary lymph node
-doesnt effect pectoral muscle
-may follow-up with 6-7 weeks of
radiation
-modified radical mastectomy
-removal of entire breast
-sample of lymph nodes
-spares pectoral muscle
-risks: infections, hematoma
lymphadema, limitation of
arm/shoulder mobility
-sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB)
-radioactive tracer/dye injected
-carried by lymph to sentinel node
which is first node to receive
lymph from tumor
-most likely to contain metastasis if
CA has spread
-if sentinel node is cancerous, more
nodes are excised

172

b.

c.

6.

II.

-reconstructive surgery
-goal is achievement of symmetry with
preservation of body image
-3 types of autologous flap reconst.
-latissimus dorsi
-TRAM-transverse rectus
abdominis myocutaneous
-inferior gluteus free
-monitor skin flap for cap. refill,
hematoma, infection, necrosis
-may also receive breast expanders implants
adjuvant therapy-radiation
-after lumpectomy in non/microinvasive cases
-any invasive ductal carcinoma <1 cm diameter
-interstitial or balloon brachytherapy
-intraoperative radiation
adjuvant therapy-drug therapies
-chemotherapy started soon after dx
-most useful in premenopausal women with
brst CA with + nodes
-can increase time without CA
-may be given alone or with HRT
-tamoxifen attaches to hormone receptor
on CA cell-cell unable to grow
-side effects-leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia,
thromobocytopenia, GI problems, hair loss

Discharge planning
-resources
ACS Reach for Recovery program
NCCN-National Comprehensive Cancer Network
ACS home page

Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections

A.
Infe ctions asso ciate d with ulc ers
1.
Syphilis
a.
caused by treponema pallidum-spirochete
b.
transmission thru abrasion of tissue, kissing,
biting, oral-genital sex
c.
can cross the placenta
d.
120,000 new cases each year
e.
higher rates in young African-Americans
f.
attributed to use of sex for drugs/money
g.
primary-chancre appears day 5-90 post
infection-nontender, shallow, indurated
h.
secondary-occurs 6 weeks-8 months
-wide spread maculopapular rash on palms/soles
-fever, headache, malaise
-may have condylomata lata
i.
tertiary-neurologic, CV, MS, or multiorgan system
complications
j.
screening:

173

j.

-microscopic exam of lesions

-serology-VDRL/RPR-may have false +
-MHA-TP-microhemagglutination assays
for antibody to T. pallidum used to confirm + tests
-seroconversion takes 6-8 weeks post exposure
management:
-PCN G IM
-treats primary, secondary, and early latent
-if syphilis older than 1 year, weekly shots for 3 wks
-alternatives: doxycycline, tetracycline
-not used in pregnancy
- erythromycin-unlikely to cure fetal infection

2.

Genital herpes simplex

a.
results in painful, reoccurring ulcers
b.
HSV-1-usually nonsexually transmitted
-oral labial ulcers
-gingivostomatitis
c.
HSV-2-transmitted during oral/genital sex
d.
not a reported disease
e.
20% Americans infected with virus-over 50 million people
f.
estimated 1 out of 4 women will get HSV-2
g.
initial infection:
-fever, chills, malaise
-severe dysuria
-painful lesions-may last 2-3 weeks
h.
lesions may progress from macule papule
vesicle pustule ulcer that crusts scar
i.
can cause cervical problems, purulent vaginal
vaginal discharge and urinary retention
j.
reoccurring episodes not as severe
k.
HSV-2 can have adverse effects on mom/fetus
-viremia
-congenital infection
-60% infant mortality if infant contracts HSV
l.
association between cervical CA and HSV-2
m.
screening:
-physical exam with complete H & P
-viral culture of ulcer
n.
management:
-chronic/reoccurring
-proper hygiene
-systemic antiviral medications
-acyclovir, valacyclovir, famiciclovir
-sitz bath with baking soda
-oral analgesics
-diet rich in Vit. C, B, zinc, and calcium
-kelp powder, sunflower seed oil
-relaxation techniques
-support groups
-condoms to prevent transmission to new partner
-C/section delivery if primary outbreak
-counseling to deal with shame, guilt, anger

3.

Lymphogranuloma venereum-CDC.gov-look for Facts Sheets

174

7
4.
5.
B.

Chancroid
Granuloma inguinale

Infe ctions of Epithelial surfa c es

Human papilloma virus-HPV
1.
a.
100+ HPV types, 40 known mucosal serotypes
b.
90% of cases cleared by immune system in 2 years
c.
if not cleared, can lead to genital warts, warts in the throat,
cervical cancer
d.
ages at risk for HPV
14-19yrs old 26.8%
20-24yrs old 44.8%
25-29yrs old 27.4%
e.
may look like a cauliflower-mass
f.
rarely transmitted to neonate at birth
g.
screening:
-S & S-dyspareunia, itching, discharge, bumps
-may need to change gloves between vaginal
and rectal exams to prevent spread
h.
Diagnosis
-cervical exam to include Pap smear & HPV test
-pap only 30-60% sensitive
-HPV screen is 90% sensitive
-cervical screening guidelines-start at age 21
(whether or not sexually active)
-intervals-every 2-3 yrs 21-29 if pap neg
-every 3 yrs 30-65 if pap/HPV neg
-age 30-HPV neg-1% risk
(99% cx CA from HPV-low progression-8.1 to 12.6 yrs)
-age 65 w/ 3 consequential neg paps in last 10 yrs
-stop needing paps
-colposcopy to view growth with biopsy
i.
need to differentiate between HPV &:
-molluscum contagiosum-white papules
-condylomata lata-secondary syphilis
j.
Prevention-vaccine Gardisil-start at age 9-26
-killed vaccine
-give prior to sexual debut or early after
-not given after >5 partners
-series of 3 injections/6 mo
-$$$, unaffordable to uninsured
-lifetime immunity but still needs paps since not all
strains covered
k.
Tx-no treatment can eradicates HPV-only symptoms
-imiquimod, podophyllin, podofilox-topical
-cryotherapy

175

2.

Gonorrhea
a.
caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae-bacteria
b.
600,000 contract gonorrhea each year
c.
rising incidence of drug-resistance
d.
transmission: oral, genital, anal
e.
higher incidence in people under 20 years old
f.
higher incidence in African-Americans
g.
women most often asymptomatic
h.
may present with pain/burning with urination,
vaginal discharge, low back pain
h.
men may c/o pain with urination and yellowish
discharge from penis
i.
may take up to 3-10 days before symptoms present
j.
screening: cultures taken from endocervix,
rectum, and possibly pharynx
k.
people are frequently coinfected-should be
tested for other STIs
l.
management: usually single dose antibiotic:
ceftriaxone
m.
45% women will also have chlamydia so should
have concomitant tx

3.

Chlamydia
a.
caused by Chlamydia trachomatis
b.
most common/fast spreading STI in women
c.
untreated leads to PID and acute salpingitis
d.
may caused ulcers on the cervix increasing
risk to acquire HIV
e.
higher incidence in women under age 20

176

9
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.

4.

sexually active individuals 25 yrs old-screen for chlamydia

yearly
all pregnant women should be screened at first PN visit
repeat cultures if woman was previously + or has multiple
partners
may have spotting, postcoital bleeding, cervical
discharge, or dysuria
dx thru culture
management-doxycycline or azithromycin
if pregnant-erythromycin/amoxicillin
since usually asymptomatic, must encourage
completion of all the medication
women tx with erythromycin need to be retested
in 3 weeks due to poor validity of tx

PID-Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

a.
involves fallopian tubes (salpingitis), uterus
(endometritis), and possibly ovaries
and peritoneal surfaces
b.
caused by multiple organisms and occasionally
caused by more than one
c.
most commonly caused by C. trachomatis
d.
also caused by gonorrhea and other aerobic
and anaerobic bacteria
e.
microorganisms spread from vagina to upper
genital tract-usually occurring at the end
of or just after menses
f.
during menses, spread supported by open cx,
decrease cervical mucus, and blood used
as a medium for growth
g.
each year, 1 million women will experience
symptomatic PID
h.
risk factors: teens, multiple partners, new
partners, history of PID, use of IUD
i.
leads to: risk for ectopic pregnancy, infertility,
chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia,
pyosalpinx, abscesses, adhesions
j.
S & S: dull, cramping, or severe pelvic pain,
bleeding, adnexal tenderness, pain
with cervical movement (Chandelier
sign), bilateral pelvic tenderness
k.
screening: good history taking to r/o other
causes, temp 38.3 0 C, abnormal
cervical/vaginal discharge, sed rate,
lab documentation of chlamydia or
gonorrhea
l.
need to teach prevention of causes to help
prevent disease
m.
need to screen asymptomatic women with
history of risky behavior
n.
tx: usually broad-spectrum abx, use analgesics,

177

10

o.
p.
q.

III.

semi-fowlers position while resting

encourage rest, proper nutrition, and hydration
will need follow-up lab work to confirm cure
teaching to include use of barrier methods, no
sexual relations until completion of meds,
follow-up pelvic exams, and other
contraceptive methods other than IUDs

Gynecologic Disorders
A.
Postm enop ausal ble e ding-ble e ding 12 months post m enses
c essation
1.
Related factors
a.
atrophic vaginitis-tissues more sensitive, bleed
easily
b.
polyps-masses in/on the cervix
c.
endometrial problems
-endometrial hyperplasia may be a precursor to
endometrial CA-need a D & C to evaluate
d.
ovarian function
estrogen/progesterone
2.

Management
a.
for vaginitis-use of creams to protect tissues
b.
for polyps-removal
c.
HRT

3.

Discussion regarding HRT

a.
most studies show risk factors and adverse
reactions R/T dose and length of tx
b.
controversy R/T method of administration,
doses, and efficacy
c.
must individualized to pts S & S , lifestyle,
and medical history
-need to deal with philosophy/beliefs regarding
exohormones
d.
if ERT alone, 5-10X risk of endometrial CA
e.
problem with adding progesterone, bleeding
f.
new studies proving that HRT may lead to
risk for brst CA
g.
short term HRT (1-5 years)-no protections
against osteoporosis or CVD
-risk factors for osteoporosis
family history
short, thin
European or Asian descent
early menopause
smoker, alcohol use
caffeine use, low calcium intake
sedentary lifestyle
use of steroids, synthyroid, diuretics
-risk factors for CVD
LDL, HDL, total serum cholesterol
risk of atherosclerosis

178

11

h.

B.

MI
emboli
thromboses
long term-may use estrogen alone or in
combination with progesterone or
testosterone
-may be continuous or cyclic

Endom etriosis
1.
Assessment
a.
benign disease characterized by implantation
of endometrial tissue outside the uterus
b.
implanted on the ovaries, cul-de-sac, uterine
ligaments, rectovaginal septum, sigmoid
colon, pelvic peritoneum, cervix, and
inguinal area
c.
endometrial lesions can be found in the vagina,
surgical scars, vulva, perineum, bladder,
and other sites such as thoracic cavity,
gallbladder and heart
d.
tissue responds to hormonal stimulation
e.
tissue bleeds during or after menses causing
inflammatory response by adjacent
organs/tissues
f.
can lead to scars and adhesions
g.
incidence
-10% in women of reproductive age
-25-35% infertile women
-28% of women with chronic pelvic pain
h.
each year account for almost 50,000
hysterectomies
i.
may remain asymptomatic and disappear
after menopause
j.
may worsen with repeated cycles
k.
found across all SES levels
l.
most widely accepted cause-retrograde
menstruation
-estimated to occur in 96% of women who
menstruate
m.
possible reasons why some women develop the
condition
-individual immune system fails to destroy tissue
-differences in genetic make-up
-environmental challenges
n.
S&S
-pain (dysmenorrhea)-possibly prior to menses
-lower abdomen pain
-dyspareunia
-painful defecation
-hypermenorrhea
-sacral back pain
-infertility

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12
2.

C.

Management
a.
NSAIDs
b.
suppression of endogenous estrogen production
m e dic ally induc e d m enop ause
-GnRH agonists
(gonadotropin-releasing hormone)
i.e. Lupron, Synarel
pituitary gonadotropin secretion
FSH/LH stimulation of ovaries
ovarian function hot flashes, vaginal
dryness
limited to 6 months R/T bone loss
potential teratogen
-androgen derivatives
Danocrine (danozol)
suppress FSH/LH secretion
produces anovulation
regression of endometrial tissues
may produce masculinizing traits
weight gain
edema
deepening of voice
oily skin
hirsutism
in brst size
other side effects
H/A
hot flashes
vaginal dryness
libido
insomnia
fatigue
dizziness
HDLs
LDLs
contraindicated-h/o liver disease
use with caution if h/o heart or renal
disease
fetus-pseudohermaphroditism
c.
may use OCs with low E to P ratio
to shrink endometrial tissues
SE: N & V, bleeding, edema
d.
mifepristone (RU-486) being used with success
e.
surgery-nd to consider age, desire for children,
location of disease
-TAH-BSO
-laser surgery to remove adhesions/tissue
f.
40% reoccurrence-except in TAH-BSO cases

Dysfunctional uterine ble e ding- a bnorm al uterine ble e ding

Wide variety of menstrual irregularities
1.
a.
menorrhagia
b.
irregular cycles
2.

Possible causes
a.
anovulation-polycystic ovary syndrome
b.
pregnancy-related-SAB
c.
genital infections-chlamydial cervicitis
d.
neoplasms-CA of cx

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13
e.
f.
g.

D.

trauma-foreign body
systemic diseases-DM
iatrogenic-herbal preparations-ginseng

3.

Severe bleeding with Hgb 8g/100ml=hospitalization

a.
given IV cong. estrogen (Premarin)
b.
possible D & C
c.
endometrial biopsy to r/o endometrial CA

4.

Incidence
a.
teens-20%
b.
women under 50-50%

5.

Management
a.
oral cong. estrogen X 21 days with progesterone
(medroxyprogesterone-Provera) added for the
last 7-10 days
b.
low dose OCP
c.
ablation of endometrium
d.
hysterectomy

Infla mm ations and Infe ctions

1.
Vaginitis/Vulvitis
a.
inflammation of vagina and/or vulva
b.
S&S
-irritation, malodorous abnormal discharge
-itching, burning, urinary frequency
-spotting
c.
causes
-infections
-lack of hormone estrogen
-irritants/allergies
chemicals
medicines
latex condoms
spermicides
diaphragm/cervical cap
scented/colored toilet paper
bubble baths douches
laundry detergents
hot tubs
horseback riding
wearing tight garments
rubbing on a bicycle seat
d.
infections
-candidiasis-yeast
causes-abx, pregnancy, DM, problems
immune system
thick white odorless discharge
in the mouth-called thrush
tx-antifungal agents
-bacterial vaginosis-BV
caused by a variety of bacteria
including gardnerella
associated with PTL and birth

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14

e.

2.

E.

etiology unknown
heavy gray frothy malodorous D/C
tx-oral metronidazole-Flagyl
antiprotozoal/antibacterial
contraindicated in women
who breast feed
may affect the CNS and
hematopoietic systems
with alcohol-can cause abdominal
distress, N & V, H/A
-trichomoniasis-anaerobic protozoan
may be asymptomatic or have frothy
musty-smelling discharge
itching on or around the vagina
spotting, urinary urgency
tx-Flagyl-tre at both p artners
since a STI-should screen for other STIs
atrophic vaginitis-irritation without discharge
-lack of estrogen due to childbirth, menopause,
bilateral oophorectomy, radiation tx
-estrogen creams restore lubrication and
decrease soreness/irritation

Toxic Shock Syndrome

a.
assessment
-primarily a disease of the reproductive age
-caused by S. aureus produces toxin TSST-1
-risk factors-retained tampons, barrier devices left in place,
surgery, recent delivery
-S & S-fever >102 F, 38.9 C, hypotension,
widespread macular rash, dizziness, N & V, diarrhea
myalgia, inflamed mucous membranes
-lab tests- BUN, Cr, SGOT, SGPT, platelets
b.
management
-mainly supportive
-antibiotics-limited value
-need to teach prevention, reoccurrence

Proble ms R/T Pelvic Support Structures

1.
Uterine Prolapse
a.
round ligaments hold uterus in anteversion
uterosacral ligaments pull cx up and back
b.
2 months PP, ligaments should return to normal
length-1/3 of women, uterus remains
retroverted
c.
causes: congenital or acquired pelvic
relaxation
-pregnancy
-perimenopausal period
-pelvic surgery
-pelvic radiation

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d.
e.

F.

tx: -pessaries
-estrogen creams
-abdominal/vaginal hysterectomy
education: use of Kegel exercises to strengthen
pelvic floor muscles

2.

Cystocele
a.
downward displacement of bladder-bulge
in anterior vaginal wall
b.
causes: genetics, obesity, childbirth, advanced
age
c.
S & S: urinary incontinence, vaginal fullness
bulge in vaginal wall
d.
complete emptying of bladder difficult R/T the
cystocele sags below the bladder neck
e.
tx: vaginal pessary or surgical repair
colporrhapy (anterior repair)-shortens
pelvic muscles to better support bladder

3.

Rectocele
a.
herniation of anterior rectal wall
b.
may lead to constipation, hemorrhoids, fecal
impaction, feeling of vaginal/rectal fullness
c.
found by rectal exam or barium enema
d.
need to promote bowel elimination
e.
surgery-posterior colporrhaphy or A & P repair
f.
follow surgery with low residue diet

C ommon Benign Ne oplasms

1.
Types/Management
a.
ovarian masses
-70-80% benign
-S & S-asymptomatic
-mass may be palpated on pelvic exam
-may have a feeling of fullness, cramping
-can lead to dyspareunia, irregular bleeding
-may resolve on own
-use of OCs
-diagnostic laparoscopy with possible
laparotomy
b.
uterine masses
-fibroids-leiomyomas
-minimal CA risk
-S & S-frequently asymptomatic
-low abdominal pain, fullness, pressure
-menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea
-metrorrhagia (intermenstrual bleeding)
-may shrink with menopause
-myomectomy, D & C, hysterectomy

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2.

G.

Total abdominal hysterectomy

a.
removal of uterus and cervix thru abdominal
incision
b.
may include removal of fallopian tubes/ovaries
BSO-bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
c astration in fe m ales
c.
600,000+ are done yearly
d.
questionable reasons for surgery
e.
may want to consider alternatives
LAVH-laparoscopic assisted vaginal hyster.
f.
pre-op: lab work, ECG, chest x-ray, informed
consent-must understand means sterility
g.
IV, shave, abdominal prep, Foley cath
h.
post-op care similar to post-op C/section
i.
need to deal with psychosocial issues

Re productive c anc ers

1.
Endometrial
a.
most frequently occurring reproductive cancer
b.
5th most common after skin, lung, breast, and colorectal
c.
asymptomatic in early development
d.
endometrial cancers are nearly all
adenocarcinomas (80%)
-cancer of glandular cells
e.
S &S-postmenopausal bleeding
f.
risk factors: obesity, advanced age,
unopposed ERT, nulliparity,
late menopause >age 52
Caucasians
g.
found by endometrial biopsy
h.
tests: CBC, liver function, renal function, BE,
CT, liver and bone scan, CA-125
j.
tx: radiation-intracavity (brachytherapy)
-external beam
chemo
surgery-TAH/BSO
2.

Cervicala.
3rd most common CA of reproductive tract
b.
risk factors
-age (50-55)
-early childbearing
-non-Caucasians
-smoking
-multiple sexual partners
-HPV G ard asil va c cine
c.
testing
-Pap smear
-colposcopy
-punch biopsy
-ECC
d.
staging:
Stage 0-carcinoma in situ-superficial
Stage 1-invaded the cervix without spreading
Stage 2-CA has spread but remains in pelvis
-5 year survival rate 65-80%

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17

e.

Stage 3-CA spread to lower wall of vagina

-5 year survival rate as low as 20-40%
Stage 4-CA spread to distant organs
tx:
Stage 0-cryosurgery, laser surgery, LEEP/LEETZ,
cone biopsy, hysterectomy
(loop electrosurgical excision procedure)
Stage 1-simple hysterectomy
if cancer is more than 3mm-may want
radical hysterectomy with removal of
lymph nodes in the pelvis
Stage 2-hysterectomy with high-dose radiation
and chemo
Stage 3 & 4-treatment and predictive prognosis
varies on severity of spread and response

3.

Ovariana.
most often occurs in 5th decade (age 45-65)
b.
most occur after menopause
c.
risk factors
-fertility drugs
-early menstruation
-nulliparity
-high fat diet
-smoking
-alcohol
-1st child after age 30
-h/o breast, colon, or endometrial CA
-family h/o breast or ovarian CA
d.
risk
-use of OCs
-h/o BTL
-BSO
e.
5 year survival rate-90% (Stage 1), 10% (Stage IV)
-discovery of CA not until advanced stage
f.
S&S
-irregular menses
-PM tension
-menorrhagia
-breast tenderness
-early menopause
-abdominal discomfort
-dyspepsia
-pelvic pressure
- abdominal girth
-urinary frequency
g.
in 75% of cases, CA had metastasized before dx
-60% beyond the pelvis
h.
dx: transvaginal U/S, laparoscopy, laparotomy
i.
tx:
-TAH/BSO
-tamoxifen
-chemo
-radiation
j.
CA 125-associated with various epithelial CA
may be used to assess response to tx
in women with known ovarian CA

4.

Vulvar
a.
90% squamous cell carcinomas
b.
accounts for 4% of Gyn malignancies
c.
more than 50% of cases occur in
postmenopausal women (age 65-70)
d.
usually localized, slow-growing, and marked

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18

e.
f.
g.
IV.

by late metastasis to regional lymph nodes

risk factors: HTN, obesity, DM
S & S: bleeding, malodorous D/C, pain, pruritus
tx: excision, laser, radiation, vulvectomy

Male Reproductive DisordersA.

Testicular C anc er
1.
Leading cause of cancer deaths in men 15-35 yrs old
a.
highly treatable
b.
usually curable-over 90% in all stages combined
c.
rarely bilateral
d.
CA most commonly dx-solid tumor-age 15-40
e.
most often in Caucasians, rare in African-Amer.
2.

Pathophysiology
a.
germinal-sperm-producing cells-95%of cases
-2 types
seminomas- (40%)
-occur in men late 30s to early 50s
-localized-grow slow
-metastasized later
-response well to radiation
-5 year survival rate-95% with
surgery and radiation
nonseminomas-not sensitive to radiation
-occur in men late teens to early 40s
-need surgery or chemo
-embryonal carcinomas
common in men 19-26 yrs old
may spread via bloodstream
-teratomas
rarely occur
often mixed with other tumors
-choriocarcinomas
lethal, fast spreading
initial dx often in metastatic
stage
-25%-teratocarcinomas
b.
stromal-hormone producing
-interstitial cell tumors(arise from Leydig cells)
androgenic hormone secretions
rare, usually benign
-androblastomas
rare, usually benign
may secrete estrogen-feminization
gynecomastia

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19
3.

Causes
a.
mainly unknown
b.
may be R/T cryptorchidism
-if develops CA, 75% will be in the undescended
testis (assoc. with seminomas)
c.
may be R/T trauma, infection

4.

Testing
a.
tumor marker study
-benign tumors never elevate marker proteins
-AFP and HCG-for nonseminoma
-in seminomas- hCG/LDH but not AFP
if AFP, think mixed tumor-diff. Tx
-if tx effective, markers should fall
b.
CT scan, U/S
c.
Chest x-ray to r/o metastasis
d.
lymphangiography to ck retroperitoneal
lymph nodes

5.

Physical exam
a.
palpate for lump
b.
may see painless enlargement
c.
heaviness, dragging sensation
d.
dull ache in abdomen, inguinal

6.

Nursing diagnosis
a.
risk for sexual dysfunction R/T disease/surgery
b.
dysfunctional/anticipatory grieving
c.
disturbance of body image R/T dx and tx
d.
acute/chronic pain
e.
anxiety R/T dx of cancer

7.

Management
a.
sperm banking-before radiation and chemo
b.
chemo
c.
radiation-seminomas
-used after orchiectomy
-external beam therapy
nonseminomas-radical lymph node
dissection saves sympathetic ganglia
d.
stem cell transplantation-used with chemo to
help prevent infection/anemia
e.
unilateral orchiectomy
f.
radical retroperitoneal lymph node dissection
-helps to stage the disease and reduce tumor

8.

Post-op teaching
a.
watch for fever, chills, increasing tenderness,
pain around the incision, drainage, or
dehiscence of the incision
b.
no stair climbing or heavy lifting (>20 lbs)
c.
resume normal activities 1 week after discharge

187

20
d.
B.

needs follow-up studies/TSE

Other Re productive Disord ers

1.
Hydrocele
a.
cystic mass with straw-colored fluid forming
around the testis
b.
disorder of lymphatic drainage of scrotum
c.
no tx necessary unless compromises testis
circulation
d.
aspirated or surgically removed
e.
may need surgical drain and hospitalization
f.
directed to wear scrotal support
2.

Spermatocele
a.
sperm-containing cystic mass on the epididymus
alongside the testicle
b.
usually small/asymptomatic-no intervention
c.
may be excised thru small incision in scrotum

3.

Varicocele
a.
cluster of dilated veins posterior/above testis
b.
uni or bilateral
c.
usually asymptomatic-no tx
d.
if painful-surgically removed
-inguinal incision
-may need to elevate scrotum with towel when
in bed to help with drainage
e.
can cause infertility by scrotal temperature

4.

Scrotal trauma
a.
torsion of testes-twisting of spermatic cord
-considered a surgical emergency
-S & S-pain, N & V
b.
ice, elevate, avoid heavy lifting, scrotal support
Cryptorchidism
a.
undescended testis
b.
mainly a pediatric problem
-3% full term males
-20% male premies
c.
80% will spontaneously descend
d.
orchidopexy-surgical placement of testis
into the scrotum

5.

6.

Cancer of the Penis

a.
less than 1% of male malignancies
b.
carcinoma is a painless, wartlike growth/ulcer
c.
small areas may be excised or cured with radiation
d.
penectomy-partial (glans only) or total
-with total-need a perineal urethrotomy for urinary
drainage

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21
7.

Phimosis
a.
prepuce constricted-cant retract over glans
b.
tx-circumcision

8.

Priapism
a.
uncontrolled, prolonged erection
b.
penis remains large, hard, and becomes painful
c.
causes
-neurological -vascular
-pharmacological
d.
urologic emergency
e.
need to improve venous drainage to corpora
cavernosa
f.
tx: Demerol, warm enemas, catheter, aspiration
of corpora cavernosa

9.

Epididymitis
a.
infection of the epididymis-tx with abx
b.
may come from infection of the prostate
c.
men under 35 yrs, chlamydia trachomatis
d.
c/o pain along inguinal canal and vas deferens
e.
may have pain and swelling of the scrotum
f.
if untreated, pyuria and bacteriuria may develop
g.
abscess may form necessitating an orchiectomy

10.

Orchitis
a.
acute testicular inflammation
b.
results from infection or trauma
c.
caused by bacteria from urethra or other
sources
d.
may be uni or bilateral
e.
risk for sterility R/T testicular atrophy
f.
tx: bedrest, scrotal elevation, ice, analgesics,
and antibiotics
g.
mumps orchitis-20% of males who have mumps
after puberty-given gamma globulins
-childhood vaccination is a good preventative
measure

11.

Prostatitis
a.
may be bacterial or abacterial (more common)
b.
abacterial-after a viral illness or assoc. with STI
-also called prostatodynia
c.
bacterial-assoc. with urethritis
-common bad guys-E. coli, Proteus, Enterobacter
and group D streptococci
-S & S-fever, chills, dysuria, urethral discharge,
and boggy, tender prostate
d.
can lead to inflammation of the bladder and
epididymus
e.
sexual dysfunction may occur R/T pain
f.
tx: antimicrobials-Geocillin, Cipro
g.
encourage sitz baths and completion of meds

189

22
h.
i.
j.

use analgesics prn

if UTI develops, may be put on Septra
instructions on activities to drain prostate
-sexual activities
-masturbation
-prostatic massage

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1
Infertility and Genetics
Le cture 13
I.

The Couple Experiencing Infertility

A.
Incid enc e
1.
Definition: Inability to conceive and carry a pregnancy
to viability after at least one year of regular
sexual intercourse without contraceptive use
a.
Primary-never pregnant
b.
Secondary-had been pregnant in the past

B.

2.

Problem for 10-15% of reproductive-aged couples

3.

Women over age 35-21% chance of infertility

Risk Fa ctors
1.
Females
a.
abnormal external genitals
b.
abnormal internal reproductive structures
c.
anovulation
-pituitary/hypothalamus hormone disorders
-adrenal gland disorders
d.
amenorrhea after stopping OCP
e.
early menopause
f.
increased prolactin levels
g.
tubal motility reduced
h.
inflammation within the tube
i.
tubal adhesions
j.
endometrial/myometrial tumors
k.
Ashermans syndrome-uterine adhesions/scars
2.

Males
a.
undescended testes
b.
hypospadias
c.
varicocele
d.
low testosterone levels
e.
testicular damage-trauma, mumps
f.
endocrine disorders
g.
genetic disorders
h.
STIs
i.
exposure to hazardous substances
j.
change in sperm
-smoking, heroin, marijuana, amyl nitrate, butyl
nitrate, methaqualone
1

191

k.

l.
m.
n.
C.

decrease in sperm
-hypopituitarism
-chronic disease
-gonadotropic inadequacy
obstruction of the vas deferens or epididymis
decreased libido
impotency

C omponents of Fertility
1.
Sperm viable in female reproductive tract for up to
48+ hours
-fertility potential-24 hrs
2.

Ova viable for about 24 hours

-optimum time for fertilization may be only 1-2 hours

3.

Blastocyst must implant within 7-10 days into the

hormonally prepared endometrium

4.

Women account for 50% of infertility cases

a.
male problems-35%
b.
unexplained factors-15%

5.

Assessment of female infertility

a.
complete history
-duration of infertility
-past obstetrical events
-sexual history
-review medical/surgical history
-assess exposure to hazardous substances
b.
physical exam
-assess endocrine systems for abnormalities
-visualize secondary sex characteristics
-tests to evaluate uterus and fallopian tubes
-bimanual exam of organ mobility
-lab tests
c.
testing
-HSG-hysterosalpingogram
-postcoital test
Sims-Huhner test-ck cervical mucus
abstain from intercourse for2-3 days
performed several hours after ejaculation
examine cervical mucus/sperm under
2

192

3
microscope
-sperm immobilization antigen-antibody reaction
-assessment of cervical mucus
spinnbarkeit-the formation of thread by
mucus from the cervix when spread on
a glass slide and drawn out by a cover
glass
-U/S dx of follicular collapse
-serum assay of plasma progesterone
-hormone analysis
estrogen, progesterone
FSH, LH
thyroid
-basal body temperature (BBT)
biphasic- temp 12-14 days before menses
ck temp before rising
0.5-1.00 rise=surge of LH, progesterone
ova released 24-36 hrs before temp
intercourse-3-4 days prior to 2-3 after
-endometrial biopsy
-laparoscopy
-U/S
6.

D.

Assessment of male infertility

a.
H&P
b.
semen analysis
-sperm density-20-200 million cells/ml
-may vary day to day-collect over a month
-effects of cervical mucus on sperms motility and
survival
-ck sperms ability to penetrate an ova

Infertility m ana g e m ent

1.
Psychosocial
a.
may need counseling to deal with issues of loss
or inadequacy
b.
dx of infertility may lead to problems with
couples personal relationship
c.
discuss alternatives, i.e. adoption
2.

Nonmedical therapies
a.
water soluble lubricants
b.
change to boxer shorts
c.
use of condoms if woman has immunologic
3

193

4
reaction to sperm-will reduce antisperm
antibody production
3.

Medical therapies
a.
ovulatory stimulants
-Clomid (clomiphene) stimulates the ovarian
follicle
-multifetal rates-less than 10%
-Parlodel (bromocriptine) inhibits release of
prolactin (elevated levels of prolactin have
an amenorrhea effect on the body)
-Bravelle, Menopur (human menopausal
gonadotropin)
extremely potent
requires daily monitoring
daily IM for 7-14 days-first half of
cycle
incidence of multifetal > 25%
-HCG-may be given to induce ovulations
after ovaries stimulated with HMG
-GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone)
used with hypothalamic-pituitary
dysfunction or failure to respond
to clomiphene
b.
hormone replacement therapy
-use conj. estrogen and medroxyprogesterone
c.
male tx
-thyroid/adrenal gland correction
-abx for STI
-clomiphene-unsure effectiveness
-HCG-stimulates androgens- spermatogenesis

4.

Surgical treatments
a.
excise ovarian tumors
b.
removal of adhesions
c.
hysterosalpingography-may unblock tubes
d.
if uterine cavity too small to carry pregnancy,
no medical tx available-each successive
pregnancy enlarges uterus
e.
may be able to reconstruct uterus R/T bicornuate
f.
myomectomy
g.
chemo/thermocautery to eliminate chronic
inflammation and infection

194

5
5.

E.

II.

Reproductive alternatives
a.
assisted reproductive alternative
(higher risk for ectopic)
-IVF-ET-in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer
-GIFT-gamete intrafallopian transfer
*after ovulation, ova and sperm moved into tube
-ZIFT-zygote intrafallopian transfer
-ovum transfer (oocyte donation)
-embryo adoption
-intracytoplasmic sperm injection
-assisted hatching
-TDI-therapeutic donor insemination
b.
preimplantation genetic diagnosis
-eliminate defect embryos before implantation
c.
surrogate mothers
-use surrogates ova and husbands sperm
-use mothers ova and husbands sperm
d.
adoption

Nursing dia gnoses

1.
Body image disturbance
2.

Decisional conflict

3.

Altered patterns of sexuality

4.

Risk for social isolation

The Family Experiencing a Genetic Disorder

A.
Chromosom al a bnorm alities
1.
Human Genome Project-1990-international effort to
map and sequence the genetic makeup of
humans
a.
ELSI-Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications
Program-sentinel to prevent discrimination
or use of material for eugenic purposes
(selective breeding)
b.
initial sequencing complete 06/00
c.
goal-to facilitate study of hereditary diseases
and provide potential for altering genes
to treat and/or prevent occurrence

195

6
2.

Chromosomes
a.
karyotype-pictorial analysis of chromosomesusually from peripheral blood but may
come from any body tissue
b.
autosomal chromosomes-22 pairs
control traits of the body
c.
sex chromosomes-pair 23
determines sex
controls some other traits
XX-female
XY-male
d.
dominant gene-their trait is expressed over
another (A A or A a)
e.
recessive gene-only expressed when another
another recessive is present (a a)
f.
terms-allele-gene that determines a specific trait
each trait has a pair of alleles
genotype-genetic makeup of an individual
phenotypephenotype-expression of genes function
either measurable or observed
homozygoushomozygous-has identical alleles on
each chromosome in the same locus
hetrozygoushetrozygous-2 different alleles at a given
locus

3.

Abnormalities in chromosomal numbers (aneuploidy)

a.
usually caused by nondisjunction
b.
occurs during meiosis when pair fails to separate
c.
trisomy-additional autosomal chromosome
-21-Down Syndrome
-18-Edwards Syndrome
-13-Patau Syndrome
(18 & 13-poor prognosis: cardiac &
respiratory problems)
d.
lack of an autosomal chromosome (45)=death of
embryo
e.
mosaicism-some cells have normal #, others
missing/having an additional chromosome
f.
sex chromosome abnormalities
-45X-Turners
juvenile external genitalia
undeveloped ovaries
short in stature
webbing of the neck
6

196

7
impaired intelligence
most affected embryos SAB
-47XXY-Klinefelters
poorly developed secondary sexual
characteristics
small testes-infertile
tall, effeminate
subnormal intelligence usually present
4.

B.

Abnormality of chromosome structure

a.
translocation-genetic material moved from
one chromosome to another-may
create an imbalance of materials
no problem if all information present
b.
additions/deletions
gamete produced has too many/too few
gene-effect may be mild severe

Patterns of Inheritanc e
1.
Multifactorial
a.
combination of genetic and other factors such
as environment
i.e.: cleft lip/palate, neural tube defects
b.
malformation may be mild to severe depending
on # of genes affected
c.
tend to occur in families
d.
some malformations more common in one sex
e.
polygenic, multifactorial diseases: coronary
artery disease, obesity, HTN, psychiatric disorders
2.

Unifactorial-Single-gene disorders
a.
one gene controls a particular trait, disorder, or
defect
b.
# of unifactorial abnormalities exceed the # of
chromosomal abnormalities
-50-100,000 genes in 23 chromosomes
c.
autosomal dominant inheritance
-abnormal gene with trait is expressed even with
a normal member of the pair-no carriers
-mutation of the gene-spontaneous, permanent
change
-affected individual comes from a family with
generations of the disorder-50% chance of
have mutant allele if parent was affected
7

197

d.

e.
f.

C.

-ex: Marfans-disorder of connective tissue

achondroplasia-dwarfism
polydactyly-extra digits
Huntington disease
autosomal recessive inheritance
-both genes in the pair carry the abnormality
-heterozygous-carriers of the recessive trait
-ex: Tay-Sachs
sickle cell anemia
cystic fibrosis
-phenylketonuria
X-linked dominant inheritance
-occur in males and heterozygous females
-ex: Fragile X syndrome-mental retardation
X-linked recessive inheritance
-no male to male transmission
-50% chance that carrier mother will pass
abnormal gene to each son who
will be affected (therefore, 50% of
males will be unaffected)
-50% chance that carrier mother will pass
abnormal gene to each daughter
who will become carriers
-for daughters to be affected, father must
be affected and mother be a carrier
or affected as well
-ex: hemophilia-defect in clotting factor VIIIc
Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Testing
1.
Prenatal testing-see booklet
a.
MSAFP
b.
CVS/amniocentesis
c.
blood tests for:
-Tay-Sachs
-Sickle Cell Anemia
-Thalassemia
-Cystic Fibrosis
d.
U/S-fetoscopy
2.

Newborn testing-see booklet

a.
PKU-mental retardation
b.
congenital hypothyroidism-retardation
c.
galactosemia-dehydration/sepsis
d.
maple syrup urine disease-neurologic
e.
homocystinuria-neurologic
f.
congenital adrenal hyperplasia-electrolytes
8

198

9
g.
D.

biotinidase deficiency-neurologic

Clinic al m ana g e m ent

1.
Genetic counseling
a.
understand facts about the disease-cause
and treatment
b.
understand how heredity contributes
c.
understand rate of recurrence
d.
aware of options
e.
course of action
f.
use of coping mechanisms/support systems
2.

Nursing roles
a.
identify risk factors
b.
identify physical/developmental abnormalities
c.
assess need for referral
d.
prepare for genetic counseling
e.
correct misconceptions
f.
demonstrate support and sensitivity
g.
explain typical outcomes

01/13