exam 2 Flashcards
purpose and use of fetal monitoring in labor
- ID signs of fetal well-being or compromise
- assess both FHR and UC’s
- no method of fetal assessment can ID every compromised fetus
- poor predictive value
- low tech approach (intermittent auscultation (doppler)
- high tech approach continuous monitoring
fetal monitoring as a major role for medical malpractice
- documentation is key (nurse’s must document and prove standard of care was met)
- nurse should identify abnormal/non-reassuring findings, intervene and report to MD/CNM in timely manner
types of fetal and uterine monitoring
- auscultation and palpation for intermittent auscultation
- ultrasound and tocodynamometer (TOCO) external EFM
- internal spiral electrode (FSE) and intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC) (internal EFM)
fetoscope or doppler
- peform leopold’s manuevers and place doppler over area of maximal intesity of fetal heart tones
- palpate maternal artery at same time
- determine relationship of contraction and FHR by palpating for contractions during the FHR auscultation
- count FHR between cotraction for at least 30-60 seconds to determine baseline
- determine differences between baseline FHR and response to contraction
external fetal monitor parts
- ultrasound transducer: recevies waveforms from fetal heart interpreted by the computer in the fetal montior to produce sound and visual tracing to reflect FHR
- toco- strain gauge that detects skin tightness or contour changes resulting from UC’s
- monitor paper
internal electronic fetal and uterine monitoring
- uses fetal scalp electrode (FSE) or internal scalp electrode applied to fetus presenting part to directly detect FHR
- internal electronic uterine monitoring involves an IUPC placed in uterine cavity to directly measure contractions
- membranes must be ruptured
- needs this when troubleshooting methods that do not alter the quality of tracing, maternal obesity, lack of progress in labor
- contraindication: infections, placenta previa, undiagnosed vaginal beleding
monitoring fetal paper
- each dark vertical line represents 1 minute and each lighter vertical line represents 10 seconds
- FHR recorded on top fird in bpm while UC recorded on lower grid in mmHg with IUPC and relative height for TOCO
- thin vertical lines (or boxes) = 10 seconds apart
- heavy vertical lines = 1 minute apart
interpretation of FHR baseline
- baseline rate
- baseline variability
interpreetation of periodic and episodic changes
- accelerations
- decels
interpretation of uterine activity
- frequency
- duration
- intensity
- resting tone
- relaxation time between UCs
category I FHR
- normal
- predictive of well-oxygenated nonacidotic fetus w/ normal fetal acid-base balance
- routine following and no action needed
category II FHR
- intermediate
- do not predict abnormal acid-base balance status
- requires eval, continued surveillance, and reevaluation in context of clinical circumstances
category III FHR
- abnormal
- predictive of abnormal acid-base balance
- requires prompt intervention and depending on situation efforts to resolves should be expedited include intrauterine resuscitation or immediate birth
FHR baseline
- mean FHR in 10 minute period rounded to nearest 5pm
- should be between 110-160
fetal tachycardia
- FHR above 160bpm that lasts for at least 10 minutes and often accompanied by a decreased or absent baseline variability
- may be a sign of early fetal hypoexmia
- if persists above 200-220bpm, fetal demise may occur
causes of fetal tachycardia
- maternal: fever, infection, anxiety, dehydration, anemia, meds, ilicit drugs
- fetal: compensatory effort following acute hypoexmia, infection, activity or stimulation, chronic hypoxia, tachyarrythmia, cardiac abnormalities, anemia
treatment for fetal tachycardia
- treat underlying cause
- assess variability and consider position change or O2 to promote oxygenation
- assess maternal VS
- initiate interventions to decrease maternal temp (meds, ice packs)
- assess hydration and admin IVF or water
- reduce anxiety by explaining, reassuring, and encouraging
- decrease or discontinue o2
- notify HCP
fetal bradycardia
- baseline FHR <110bpm
- unresolved may result in fetal hypoxia and needs immediate intervention
- sudden profound bradycardia (>80bpm) obstetrical emergency
- with normal variability may be beginning
- with loss of variability or late decels is associated with current or impending fetal hypoxia
causes of fetal brady cardia
- maternal: supine position, dehdyration, hypotension, acute maternal cardiopulmonary compromise, uterine rupture, placental abruption, medications (anesthetics, adrenergic receptors)
- fetus: fetal response to hypoxia, umbilical cord compression, acute hypoxemia (late or profound), hypothermia, hypokalemia, chronic fetal head compression, fetal bradyarrythmias
treatment of fetal bradycardia
- medical: cause related, consider delivery
- confirm FHR vs MHR
- assess fetal movement
- assess fetal response to fetal scalp stimulation
- perform vaginal exam and assess for prolapsed cord
- assess maternal VS
- assess hydration and hydrate prn
depending of FHR variability and other characteristics…
- change maternal postion (left or right lateral) to promote fetal oxygenation
- discontinue oxytocin to reduce UC
- give oxygen 10L/min via nonrebreather face mask to promote fetal oxygenation
- modifying pushing to every other contraction or stop pushing until the FHR recovers to promote fetal oxygenation
- encourage open glottis pushing efforts
- discourage prolonged or sustained breath holding while pushing
- provide support
- notify HCP
assessing baseline variability
- most important characteristic of FHR presence implies that both branches of autonomic nervous system are functioning
- beat to beat changes/variations/fluctuations in FHR baseline
- described by undetectable, observed at fewer than 5bpm, 6-25bpm, 25bpm
absent variability
- 0-2bpm
- looks like flatline
- non-reassuring
minimal variability
3-5bpm
causes of absent or minimal variability
- fetal acidemia secondary to uteroplacental insufficiency
- cord compression
- preterm
- maternal hypotension
- uterine hyperstimulation
- abruptio placentae
- fetal dysrhythmia
interventions for absent or minimal variability
- lateral positioning of mother
- increase IVF rate
- administer oxygen at 8-10L/min via mask
- consider internal F montioring
- report to HCP and document
- prep for possible C-section in case no changes occur
moderate variability
- 6-25
- indicates autonomic and nervous system of fetus are well developed and well oxygenated
- considered a GOOD sign of fetal well0being and correlates with absence of significant metabolic acidosis
- this is NORMAL and fetus can utilize o2
marked variability
> 25bpm (excessive)
causes of marked variability
- cord prolapse or compression
- maternal hypotension
- uterine hyperstimulation
- abruptio placenta
interventions for marked variability
- determine cause
- lateral positioning
- increase IVF rate
- administer o2 at 8-10L/min by mask
- discontinue oxytocin
- observe for changes in tracing
- consider internal fetal monitoring
- notify HCP and prep for surgical birth if no change
determining if accel’s are present
- transitory abrupt increases in FHR above baseline that last <30 seconds from onset to peak
- determine if present or absent
- always reassuring, occurs with fetal movement or stimualtion
- if present and 15x15 (abrupt increase by at least 15 beats above baseline for at least 15 seconds) it is reactive
- this strip has a FHR baseline of 145 and is reactive because FHR baseline has increase to at least 160 for minimally 15 seconds
decelerations
- decrease in FHR caused by stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system
- describe by their shape and association to uterine contractions
- determine if present or absent, if absent GREAT
- can be early, variable, late, prolonged
early decels
- occur early with onset of the contraction
- mirrors the shape and timing of contraction (therefore need a ontraction to determine the type of decel)
- appearance is shallow and cuplike
- reassuring: caused by vagal stimulation that occurs with pressure on fetus’ head
- NO intervention needed
variable decels
- can occur or be ID’d with or without contraction
- often ABRUPT, with a U, V, or W shape, return to baseline is also abrupt
- non-reassuring especially if deep or prolonged
- results from compression of umbilical cord!!!!!
interventions for variable decels
- change maternal position
- perform sterile vaginal exam to eval cord
- admin oxygen at 10L/min via nonrebreather
- prep for possible amnioinfusion
- decrease or discontinue oxytocin
- consider need for tocolytics to reduce UC
- consider internal fetal monitoring
- modify pushing
- provide support
- notify HCP
- plan for delivery and care of neonate
late decels
- occur late or after onset of contraction
- need contraction to determine kind of decels
- apperance is shallow and cuplike
- NON-reassuring especially if seen with absent or minimal variability
- results of uteroplacental insufficiency (fetus isn’t getting o2)
treatment for late decels
- change the maternal position
- discontinue oxy and consider terbutaline
- assess hydration and give IV bolus
- consider fetal scalp stimulation
- administer o2 at 10L/min via nonrebreather
- consider internal fetal monitoring
- provide support
- notify HCP
- plan for delivery and care of baby
prolonged decels
- a “long & late” 15bpm drop below baseline testing >2minutes but <10 minutes
- non-reassuring
- result of uteroplacental insufficiency with or without cord compression
- interventions same as the rest
VEAL CHOP
- Variable decels = Cord compression
- Early decels = Head compression
- Accels = Ok
- Late decels = Placental insufficiency
contractions
- frequency measured in minutes, beginning of one contraction to beginning of next
- duration measured in seconds beginning to end of each contraction
- intensity (toco-palpation, mild moderate, strong) (IUPC-subtracting resting tone from strongest (tallest UC) and weakest (shortest UC) for a range in mmHg
- resting tone, pressure of uterus at rest/between UC (external palpation soft or firm, internal in mmHg (do NOT want >35mmHg)
assessing intensity of contractions
- place fingertips on fundus of uterus to assess degree of tension as the contraction occurs
- intensity measured at peak of contraction and rated as mild, moderate, or storng
- resting tone is measured between contraction and listed as soft, firm, uterine tone
- subjective and can be biased by fat distribution of client’s abdomen
assessing intensity
- resting tone
- weakest contraction (highest point - resting tone = x)
- strongest UC (strongest UC - resting=x)
- UC intensity range from weakest and strongest with resting tone
dystocia
- abnormal progression of labor
- characterized by a slow and abnormal progression of labor
- fatiguining for both mother and fetus
- leading indicator for C-section
- because cannot be predicted for diagnosed w/ certainty, the term “failure to progress” is often used
- abnormalities involve the powers, passengers, and psyche
what problem is associated with powers
- hypertonic uterine dysfunction
- hypotonic uterine dysfunction
hypertonic uterine dysfunction
- uncoordinated uterine activity
- contractions frequent and painful but ineffective in promoting dilation and effacement
- risk for maternal exhaustion and fetal intolerance of labor and asphyxia due to decreased placental perfusion
assessment of hypertonic uterine dysfunction
- painful
- frequent contractions with inadequate relaxation inbetween
- little cervical changes
medical management of uterine dystocia / hypertonic uterine dysfunction
- evaluate progress
- determine cause
- hydrate
- provide pain management
nursing care for hypertonic uterine dysfunction/uterine dystocia
- promote rest
- admin pain meds as ordered
- promote relaxation
- hydrate with IV or PO fluids
- assess FHR and UC’s
- evaluate labor progress via sterile vaginal exam
- support and explain
- notify HCP
hypotonic uterine dysfunction
- occurs during active labor (dilation >5-6cm)
- contractions become poor in quality and lack sufficient intensity to dilate and efface the cervix
- MAJOR risk for postpartum hemorrhage as the uterus cannot contract effectively to compress blood vessels
clinical manifestations of hypotonic uterine dysfunction
- weak contractions that become milder
- uterine fundus that can be easily fingertip pressure at peak of each contraction and contractions that become more infrequent and brief
medical management of hypotonic uterine dysfunction
- evaluate labor progression
- determine cause
- consider interventions (starting oxy, performing amniotomy, c-section, etc)
nursing interventions for hypertonic uterine dysfunction
- assess uterine activity
- assess maternal and fetal status
- ambulate and change position
- hydrate w IVF or po fluids
- augment labor with oxy per protocol
- provide support and keep woman and family informed
- notify HCP of response and progression
precipitous labor
entire labor and birth within 3 hours
risks for precipitous labor
- maternal: cervical laceration, potential for uterine rupture
- fetal: head trauma (i.e., intracranial hemorrhage, nerve damage), hypoxia due to rapid progression of labor
nursing management for precipitious labor
- promote safety
- monitor VS and UCs q15 min
- provide support
- anticipate complications
- prep for delivery
problems with passenger
- should dystocia
- breech/positioning
- preterm labor
shoulder dystocia
- difficulty during delivery of shoulder after birth of head which often occurs when passage of anterior shoulder is obstructed by symphysis pubis
- first sign is retraction of fetal head against the maternal perineum after delivery of head, sometimes called turtle sign
- increased suspicion with prolonged second stage of labor
- risk factors not clearly ID’d but associated with birth weight >4000g (fetal macrosomia)
- EMERGENCY!!!
management of shoulder dystocia
qplace women’s legs upward and pressing down on abdomen
nursing management for shoulder dystocia
- call for help
- explain the situation to client and family
- urge NOT to push
- help client assume position
- assist HCP w/ manuevers and techniques during birth
- document maneuvers including amount of time required to resolve shoulder dystocia
- provide encouragement and support
- assess newborn for clavicle or humerus fracture, brachial plexus injury, and asphyxia
- assess mother for early hemorrhage and trauma to vagina, perineum, and rectum
positoning of fetus
- single footing breech (one foot out)
- frank breech (buttocks is presenting part)
preterm labor
- occurence of regular contractions accompanied by cervical effacement and dilation before end of 37 weeks gestation
- if not halted, results in preterm birth
signs of preterm labor
- uterine contraction q10 min or less w/ or w/o pain
- mild menstrual like cramps felt low in abdomen
- constant or intermittent feelings of pelvic pressure that may feel like the baby pressing down
- rupture of membranes
- low, dull, backache, constant or intermittent
- change in vaginal discharge
- urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, or hematuria
- abdominal cramping w/ or w/o diarrhea
primary interventions for preterm labor
- diagnosis and treatment of STIs, UTIs, and bacterial vaginosis
- admin hydroxyprogesterone 100mg 2x/daily vaginally
- cervical cerclage
secondary prevention of preterm labor
- administer antibiotics to treat infection if needed
- placement of emergency or rescue cerclage in early 2nd trimester
- tocolysis
- if woman is btwn 24-34wks and candidate for tocolysis, admin corticosteroids (betamethasone or dexamethasone) for benefit of fetal lung maturity
tocolytic medications
- terbutaline
- magnesium sulfate
- nifedipine (procardia)
terbutaline
- admin subq (0.25mg normally)
- use not exceeding 48-72hrs
- often used for breakthrough contractions in a patient not currently in active labor
- sometimes used in labor for tachysystole
magnesium sulfate
- tocolytic choice
- do not admin if on CCB
- loading dose 4-6g IV 100mL of IVF over 20 minutes (maintenance 2-4g/hr)
- maintain for 12-24 hrs at lowest rate
nifedipine (procardia)
- calcium channel blocker
- PO or IV
- acts by reducing flow of calcium ions into intracellular space of myometrial smooth muscle cells inhibiting contractile activity
- check BP before
health promotion ot prevent preterm labor
- teach to recognize s/s of preterm labor
- teach to evaluate contractions
- ensure pt knows when to report and notify HCP
hospital based nursing care for preterm labor
- promote rest
- monitor vitals and I&Os
- continuosuly monitor FHR and UCs
- admin tocolytics
- keep informed, provide explanations, allow expression of feelings and concerns
post-term pregnancy
- extends >294 days or 42 completed weeks past the first day of LMP
- associated with deterioration of placenta and related problems for baby (reduced blood supply, decreased fetal oxygenation, reduced nutritional supply
- 20% of postterm fetuses experience dysmaturity syndrome (associated with uteroplacental insufficiency resembling IUGR, meconium aspiration, and short term neonatal complications)
maternal risks after post-term pregnancy
- increased discomfort of pregnancy
- anxiety
- insomnia
- C-section
- operative vaginal birth (forceps, vaccum)
- perineal trauma or damage
- maternal hemorrhage
clinical interventions for post-term pregnancy
- HCP will begin specialized monitoring when completing 40th weeks (nonstress and biophysical profile)
- if problems occur, induction of labor recomended
nursing care for post-term pregnancy
- assess EDOB and criteria to establish date
- evaluate FHR during NST or during care of laboring patients
- be preped to intervene for non-reassuring FHR
- assess fluids for presence of meconium once membranes are ruptured
induction of labor
- deliberate stimulation of UCs before onset of spontaneous labor to facilitate a vaginal delivery
- induction of labor refers to techniques for stimulation UCs to accomplish delivery before osnet of spontaneous labor
- maternal indications: preeclampsia, eclampsia, fetal death, chorioamnionitis
- fetal indications: IUGR, isoimmunizations, premature rupture of membranes with established lung majority)
contraindications of labor induction
- complete placenta previa
- placental abruption
- transverse lie
- floating presenting part
- fetal distress
- previous uterine surgery that prohibits trial of labor
management for induction
- u/s to evaluate fetal size, position, and GA along with locating placenta
- engaged fetal part
- pelvimetry to rule out fetopelvic disproportion
- NST to evaluate fetal well being
- phosphatidyl glycerol levels to assess fetal lung maturity
- confirmation of category I FHR
- vaginal exam to eval cervix and inductability
- labs: CBC, UA
- methods to induce: mechanical, cervical, pharmacologic
bishop score 0
- closed
- effaced 0-30%
- -3 station
- firm cervix
- posterior cervical position
bishop score 1
- 1-2 cm dilated
- 40-50% effaced
- -2 station
- medium cervical consistency
- cervix in midposition
bishop score 2
- 3-4 cm dialted
- 60-70% effaced
- -1 fetal station
- soft cervix
- anterior positioning
bishop score of 3
- 5-6 cm dilated
- 80% effaced
- +1/+2 station
pharmalogical method for induction
misoprostol
action of misoprostol
ripens cervix making it softer and causing it to begin to dilate and efface, stimulating uterine contractions
indication for misoprostol (cytotec)
- used for preinduction cervical ripening (ripen cervix before oxytocin induction of labor when bishop score is 4 or less)
- used to induce labor or absortion
misoprostol dosage and admin
- 25mcg as initial dose
- insert intravaginally into posterior vaginal fornix using tips of index and middle fingers without use of lubricant
- redosing is permissible if cervix remains unfavorable
- FHR normal and have at least 3hrs since last dose
nursing management for misoprostol
- explain procedures to client and family
- assess VS, FHR, and pattern and perform bishop score
- have woman void before insertion of med
- admin as ordered
- monitoring for tachysystole, fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea
- prep to admin terbutaline 0.25 mg SQ if adverse effects occurs
- document all findings and admin procedures
oxytocin indications
- used primarily for labor induction and augmentation
- can be used to control postpartum bleeding
- goal: use lowest dose possible to achieve adequate labor evidence by progressive cervical effacement and dilation (0.5-1cm/hr) after active labor has been acheived
dosage and admin of oxytocin
- admin IV through secondary line via infusion pump
- start at 1-2miliunits/min
- increase rate by 1-2milliunits/min no more frequently than 30-60 minutes based on response
adverse effects of oxytocin
- maternal: uterine tachysystole, placental abruption, uterine rupture
- fetal: fetal compromise, progressive decrease in fetal oxygen status, neonatal acidemia
nursing management for oxytocin
- HIGH alert
- education and support
- assess uterine activity and FHR continuously using EFM
- evaluate tracings q15min during first stage and during passive stage
- evaluation tracing q5min during active pushing
- contractions shouldn’t occur >q2min
- titrate to lowest dose that acheieves labor progres
- document time, each time increased, decreased, or discontinued, assessment and communication w/ HCP
prolpased umblical cord
- precedes fetal presenting part
- trapped between preenting part and pelvis
- pressing part not firmly against cervix
- potential obstruction of blood flow through cord
- variable or prolonged decels
nursing management of prolpased cord
- MEDICAL EMERGENCY
- if loop of cord palpated on vaginal exam, push presenting part up off cord and hold
- call for help
- notify HCP
- explain to client what is happening
- place client in knee chest position or trendelenburg
- admin O2 at 10L/min via mask
- admin IVF
- discontinue oxytocin
- prep for immediate delivery
forceps assisted birth
- used to apply traction to fetal head or provide method of rotating fetal head during birth
- are stainless steel instruments, similar to ongs, with rounded edges that fit around fetus’s head
- applied to side
- type determined by HCP
vaccum assisted birth
- cup shaped instrument attached to suction pump for extraction
- suction cup placed against occiput
- pump used ot create negative pressure
- HCP applies traciton until fetal head emerges
indicateds for forcep or vaccum
- prolonged 2nd stage
- distress FHR
- failure of presenting part to rotate and descend into pevlis
- limited senstation and inability to push effectively from anesthesia
- presumed fetal jeporady or distress
- maternal heart disease, pulmonary edema, intrapartum infeciton, maternal fatigue
- trend to use vaccum over forceps
nursing interventions for forceps
- assess woman’s anesthesia level and comfort level
- insert straight cath
- provide emotional support
- document type of forceps, # of applications, and time
- anticipate potential complications
nursing interventions for vaccum extraction
- assess woman’s anesthesia level and comfort
- educate and reassure
- anticipate potential complication
- pump vaccum to appropriate level
- pressure should be released during contractions
- document pump was used
- time how long cup is on fetal head
maternal complications of forceps or vaccum
- lacerations of cervix, vagina, or perineum
- hematoma
- extension of episiotomy incision into anus
- hemorrhage
- infection
fetal complications of forceps and vaccum assist
- ecchymoses
- facial and scalp lacerations
- facial nerve injury
- cephalohematoma
- caput succedaneum
cesarean birth
- surgical birth of fetus through incision in abdominal wall
- most commonly performed surgery in US
- indicated for abnormal presentation, previous uterine surgery, placenta previa, non-reassuring fetal status, active herpes infection, dystocia
complications of c-section
- infection
- hemorrhage
- aspiration
- PE
- urinary tract trauma
- thrombophlebitis
- paralytic ileus
- atelectasis
- fetal injury and transient tachypnea of newborn
spinal anesthesia (block)
- anesthetic solution containing local anesthetic alone or in combo w/ opiod
- injected into 3rd,4th, or 5th lumbar interspace into subarachnoid space
- mixes with CSF
- provides anesthesia from nipples to feet
- lasts 1-3hrs depending on type and amougn
advantages of spinal block
- immediate onset on anesthesia
- relative ease of admin
- smaller drug volume
- maternal compartmentalization of drug
disadvantages of spinal block
- primary intense blockage of synthetic fibers
- uterine tone is maintained
- short acting
complications of spinal block
- hyoptension
- high level complete spinal or total spinal block
- spinal headache
nursing care during spinal anesthesia
- assist with positioning
- provide support and encourage breathing and relaxation
- provide o2 via nasal cannula or face mask
- record baseline
- admin fluid bolus
- palpate uterus to detect contractions
- after procedure assist to supine with wedge
- keep client informed
- assess fr hypotension and difficulty breathing
lumbar epidural block
- provides adequate pain relief, does not pass placenta
- allows woman some sensation to feel pressure and push
- preferred method of pain relief
- most common technique used in labor is continuous infusion pump (PCEA)
- side effects: hypotension, pruritus, patchy blocks, shivering
advantages of lumbar epidural block
- produces good analgesia
- woman fully awake
- does not enter fetal bloodstream
- once pump stopped, wears off within 1-2hrs
- if fails to profress, epidural can be used for c-section
disadvantages of lumbar epidural block
- maternal hypotension secondary to peripheral vasodilation
- can be prevented by preloading with rapid infusion of IVF (500-1000cc) and then providing IVF continuously until birthq
maternal hypotension
- caused by spinal blockade which lowers peripheral resistance which decreases venous return to heart and lowers cardiac output causing decreased BP
- will lead to uteroplacental insufficiency in fetus presenting as late decels
- to minimize: preload with IVF and continue IVF
when complication occurs you want to
- flip: reposition on side
- flush: increase fluids
- O: administer 10L o2 via nonrebreather
nursing care for epidurals
- assess maternal VS and FHR
- ensure O2 and resuscitative equipment ready and function
- start IVF and admin
- encourage rest when tired
- assist with procedure
- help reposition and monitor BP and FHR
general anesthesia
- achieved throrugh combination of IV analgesics and inhaled agents
- IV anesthetics used: propofol, ketamine
- inhaled meds: nitrous oxide and halogenated agents
- major complications: fetal respiratory depression, uterine relaxation, vomiting, aspiration
nursing care for general anesthesia
- administer antacids prophylactically
- position with wedge under hip
- preoxygenate
- start IVF
- assist anesthesiologist and other surgical team members
- provide emotional support
- encourage breastfeeding when awake
preop teaching for C-section
- provide education, clarification and support (explain why and what for)
- prepare for postop period (breastfeeding, pain management, ambulation)
- emergency c-section (support partner)
postop care
- assess dressing, stitches, and staples
- perineal pad check q15min
- fundus palpated
- determine if remaining firm
- IV oxytocin
- assist with cough and deep breathing
- newborn safety
- promote bonding
propsoed causes of preeclampsia
- placental implantation with abnormal trophoblasts invasion in uterine wall
- immunological maladaptive tolerance between maternal, paternal (placental), and fetal tissues
- maternal maladaptation to cardiovascular changes or inflammatory changes of pregnancy
- genetic factors including inherited predisposing genes and epiegnic influences
preeclampsia signs/symptoms
- sevre headache
- swollen face
- visual disturbances
- epigastric/chest pain
- high BP
- swollen hands/fingers
- swollen legs/feet
- proteinuria
risks for woman w/ preeclampsia
- cerebral edema, hemorrhage, or stroke
- disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
- pulmonary edema
- congestive HF
- maternal sequelae resulting from organ damage including RF, HELLP sundrome, thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, pulmonary edema, eclampsia, (seizures), and hepatic failure
- placenta abruptio
- 1.5-2x more likely to develop heart disease
risk for fetus and newborn with preeclampsia
- uteroplacental ischemia including fetal growth restriction, oligohydraminos, placental abruption, and nonreassuring fetal status
- fetal intolerance to labor due to decreased placental perfusion
- still birth
medical managemet for preeclampsia
- control of BP and prevention of seizure activity and cerebral hemorrhage
- induced brith is indicated for women at less than 34weeks gestation with severe features of preeclampsia or unstable maternal or fetal status at any gestation
nursing management of preeclampsia
- accurate assessment and monitoring for labs
- admin antihypertensives
- admin mag sulfate
- assess for CNS changes (headache, visual changes, DTRs, clonus)
- assess for epigastric pain or RUQ pain showing liver involvement
- maintain accurate I&Os to eval kidney fxn
- perform atenatal fetal testing for FHR monitoring
- provide adequate environment to decrease CNS stimulation
- maintain bedrest in lateral recumbent position
- provide information to woman and her family
- report decline in maternal or fetal status to HCP
magnesium sulfate dosage and admin
IV access: load 4-6g 10% mag sulfate in 100mL solution over 20 minutes, maintenance dose 1-2g/hr
no IV access: 10grams of 50% solution IM (5g in each buttock)
antihypertensive meds dosage and admin
- for SBP >160 or DBP >110
- labetalol: 10-20mg for more than 2min, 40mg, 80 IV over 2minutes
- hydralazine (5-10mg IV over 2 min, repeat q20min until BP is reached
- nifedipine: 10-20mg capsules prn may repeat in 20 minutes
anticonvulsants admin and dosage
- for recurrent seiures
- lorazepam (ativan): 2-4mg IV, may repeat 10-15min
- diazepam (valium): 5-10mg IV q5-10min
contraindications for mag sulfate
- pulmonary edema
- renal failure
- myasthenia gravis
labetalol contraindications
- avoid in asthma or HF
- can cause neonatal bradycardia
hydralazine contraindications
- mitral valve disease
DTR scale
0 = no response
+1 = sluggish or diminished
+2 = active or expect
+3 = more brisk than expect, slightly hyperactive
4+ = brisk, hyperactive, with intermittent or transient clonus (spasms)
eclampsia
- may be triggered by cerebral vasospasm, cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral ischemia, or cerebral edema
- often preceded by premonitory signs of cerebral irritation like severe headaches, blurred vision, photophobia, and altered LOC
- during eclamptic seizures, prolonged FHR decels, even fetal bradycardia, and increase in uterine contractility may occur
- after a seizure due to maternal hypoxia and hypercarbia, FHR tracing may show recurrent decels, tachycardia, and reduced variability
care during seizures
- remaining with pt
- call for help
- providing pt safety and assessing airway and breathing
- prevent maternal injury
- record time, lengthm and type of seizure activity
- notify HCP
after seizure care
- rapidly assess maternal and fetal status
- assess airway, suction if needed
- admin O2 (10L via mask)
- ensure IV access
- admin mag sulfate
- provide quiet environment
HELLP syndrome
- variant of preeclamspai (sevre form) involving hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, liver dissunfction
- life threatening
HELLP
Hemolysis: causes anemia and jaundice
Elevated Lfts: ALT and AST increase, epigastric pain, n/v
Low Platelets: thrombocytopenia, abnormal bleeding and clotting time, bleeding gums, petechiae, and possibly disseminated intravascular coagulopathy
nursing care for HELLP
- perform thorough assessment
- evaluate lab tests
- notfiy HCP if HELLP syndrome suspected
- admin platelets as per orders
- note assessment and management are sam efro women diagnosed with HELLP
- provide woman and family info
- provide emotional supprot
gestational diabetes
- group of metabolic disease showing hyperglycemia resulting from effects insulin secretion, action, or both
- caused by impaired insulin secretion or inadequate insulin action
- most common endocrine disorder of pregnancy
- can be successfully managed with multidisciplinary approach
- goal to maintain glucose levels
target blood sugar
fasting: <95
premeal: <100
1hr after meals: <140
2hrs after meals <120
A1C: <6
nursing managment of GD
- maintain glucose levels throughout pregnancy
- teach how to test levels using 3 checks/day
- educate importance of maintenance
- teach signs of hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and DKA
- reinforce diet and exercise
- assess behavior and mental health
- reinforce plan of care related to self management and fetal surveillance (daily kick counts)
intrapartum care for GD
- glucose monitoring hourly (80-110 is desired)
- insulin infusion may be needed to maintain levels
- avoid dextrose
after birth/postpartum care of GD
- most return to normal
- high risk for future GDM
- increase risk of type II
- reassess at 6-12 weeks PP
- contraceptives
postpartum assessment of mother
- based on thorough assessment
- designed to meet needs of woman and new family as well as dtect and treat complications
- nurse uses knowledge to guide assessment
- also assessment time is an excellent opportunity for pt education
postpartum assessment principles
- select time
- consider needs
- provide explanations
- ensure relaxation
- perform procedures gently
- document and report results
- take appropriate precautions
typical assessments in postpartum period
- 1hr: q15 min
- 2nd hour: q30min
- first 24hrs: q4hrs
- after 24hrs: q8hrs
vitals PP
- temp: slightly elevated during first 24hrs, normal afterward
- pulse: 60-80 bom, pulse >100 needs further investigation
- respirations: 12-20 and clear
- BP: WNL, no higher than 140/90 or lower than 85/60
- pain: goal btwn 0-2
BUBBLELE
- breasts
- uterus
- bladder
- bowels
- lochia
- episiostomy/lacerations
- lower extremities
- emotional status
breasts
- assess fit and support of bra
- provide information on selecting bra
- examine shape, size, abnormalities, reddened areas or enorgement, check for cracked blistered or bleeding nipples, erect, flat or inverted
- note dischage and doument
- palpate breast lightly for softness, slight firmness associated with filling or tightness of engorgement, warmth or tenderness
breast teaching
- characteristics
- breast feeding: use supportive bra, keep nipples dry and watch for fissures or cracks, watch for reddened or tender spots, additional teaching while breastfeeding prn
- nonbreastfeeding: use supportive bra, avoid breast stimulation, apply cold, raw cold cabbage leaves, allow water in shower to flow over back not breasts
uterus
- have her void before exam
- palpate position of fundus in relation to umbilicus
- note for boggy, firm, or midline
- inspect abdominal incision of c-section for REEDA
- excessive pain may indicate infection
bladder
- monitor during hours after birth
- 1st few voids need to be measured and documented (should be between 150-200mL)
- assess frequently for distention, frequency, burning, or urgency
- catheterization may be needed
- encourage frequent voiding, increase amount of water drinks
bowel
- assess bowel sounds and abdomen
- movements return within 2-3days
- constipation can increase pressure on perineal sutures and increase discomfort
- educate on how to return to normal BMs, use of stool softners, not to be scared to have one, dangers of constipation
lochia
- assess character, amount, odor, and presence of clots
- assess for rubra, serosa, and alba
lochia education
- normal changes in color and characteristics
- effect of position changes
- hygienic measures: use of peribottle, hand hygiene with changing pad, wiping front to back
episiotomy/perineum
- inspected in Sim’s position
- lift buttocks to expose perineum and anuse
- inspect episiotomy site and for presence of hemorrhoids
- usually edematous and slightly bruised
- can take up to 4-6months to heal
- alsp inspect for hemorrhoids
lacerations
- classified based on severity and tissue involement
- 1st degree: involves only skin and superficial structures above muscle
- 2nd degree: extends through perineal msucules
- 3rd degree: extends through anal sphincter muscle
- 4th degree: continues through anterior rectal wall
care of lacerations and episiotomies
- assess q8hrs
- large areas of swollen bluish skin with sevre pain indicate hematomas
- redness, swelling, increased discomfort or purulent drainage indicates infection
- white line running down length of episiotomy is sign of infeciton as well as swelling or discharge
inspecting epidural
- visually inspect
- perform I&Os
- assess for side effects of injected medications (i.e., itching, n/v, or urinary retention)
episiotomy and perineum teaching
- discuss type
- care of sutures
- cleansing perineum
- comfort measures
- kegels
lower extremities
- assess for redness, swelling, heat, tenderness or pain in legs
- determine degree of sensory and motor fxn by asking if they can feel sensation and ambulate
emotional status
- observe interactions, independence, energy levels, eye contact, posture, etc/
- be alert for mood swings, irritability, or crying episodes
emotional education
- rest
- gradually return to normal activity
- proper nutrition
- ask for help
- infant safety
nursing interventions in postpartum period
- provide optimal cultural care
- determine client’s preferences before intervention
- may include dietary restrictions, certain clothes, taboos, activites for mental health, use of silence, prayer or meditation
- restoring health may involve folk medicine or conferring with tribal healer
nursing interventions to promote comfort
- ice packs within first 24hrs to reduce perineal edema and prevent hematoma formation
- peribottle filled with warm water prayed over perineal area after voiding
- sitz bath after first 24hrs using room temp water to reduce swelling and promote comfort
- topical prep: benzocaine spray, witch hazel spray and dibucaine or hydrocortiisone for hemorrhoids
- analgesics: acetaminophen, iburopen, naproxen,
nursing interventions continued
- assess voids
- admin stool softners as ordered
- encourage to ambulate
- encourage increase in fluids and fiber
- encourage adequate rest periods
- encourage exercise
immunizations given postpartum
- tdap (tetanus, diptheria, pertussis)
- MMR II (measles, mumps, rubella)
- flu vaccine
- Rhogam
points to remeber about PP care
- best postpartum care is individualized, family0centered, and disrupts family as little as possible
- knowledge of normal and abnormal helps recognize problems and begin interventions
- communicating information helps family adjust
- pt education is vital to prevent further complications
postpartum complications info
- can be life thretening and require collab management
- somtimes requires readmission
- need to be aware of physical or emotinal complications during birth
- need to teach s/s of PP complication, when to notify HCP, and how to prevent complicatiosn
most common PP complications
- hemorrhage
- infections
- thromboembolic disease (clots)
- postpartum psychiatric disorders
postpartum hemorrhage
- > 500mL following vaginal birth
- > 1000mL following C-section
- any amount of bleeding that places mother in hemodynamic jeporady
- primary hemorrhage occurs within first 24hrs
- late hemorrhage ocurs 24hrs to 12weeks after birth
causes of hemorrhage
- uterine atony (failure to contract)
- lacerations of genital tract
- episiotomy
- retained placental fragments
- uterine inversion
- coagulation disorders
- hematoma of vulva, vagina, or subperitoneal areas
pathophysiology of PPH (4 Ts)
- tone: uterine atony, distended bladder
- tissue: retained placenta and clots
- Trauma: vaginal, cervical, or uterine injury
- Thrombin: coagulopathy (preexisting or acquired)
nursing interventions for hemorrhage
- review maternal hx to ID risk factors
- regular and frequent assessment of fundal position and tone or contractility, if boggy MASSAGE
- monitor bladder for distension, immediately inttervene if present
- assess for bleeding
- examine perineal area for hematomas
- monitor VS, LOC, I&Os, and O2 sats
- if suspected PPH, cal for help and notify HCP STAT
oxytocin
- given to stimulate contraction of uterus
- 20-40units in liter IV or 10 units IM
- monitor fundus for contraction
- monitor for bleeding q15min
- monitor vitals q15
- monitor uterine tone, assure client, offer explanation, provide nonpharmacologic comfort measires, set up IV infusion
misoprostol
- stimulates uterus to contract reducing bleeding
- 800 mcg PR
- contraindications: undilued as bolus injection IV
- don’t give with allergy, active CVD, hepatic disease, or asthma
dinoprostone
- helps contract uterus to stop bleeding
- 20mg vaginal or rectal
- monitor BP (hypotension common), vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and temp elevation
methylergonovine maleate
- stimulates uterus to prevent and treat postpartum hemorrhage due to atony
- assess baseline bleeding
- offer explanation
- monitor for adverse effects of HTN, seizures, uterine cramping, n/v, and plapitations
- report chest pain
- don’t give if HTN
prostaglandin or carboprost
- stimulates uterine contractions to treat PPH when uncontrolled by other methods
- 0.25 mg IM
- monitor vitals, contractions, comfort, and bleeding
- monitor for adverse effects like fever, chills, headache, n/v, diarrhea, flushing, and bronchospams
- don’t give w/ asthma or active CVD, renal or hepatic disease
don’t give oxytocin or ptiocin as
undiluted bolus injection IV
don’t give cytotec with
- allergy
- active CVD
- pulmonary disease
- hepatic disease
dont give prostin E2
- active cardiac, pulmonary or renal disease
don’t give methergine if
woman is hypertensive
don’t give hemabate if
asthmatic
nursing care after PPH
- monitor vitals
- evaluate for s/s of anemia (fatigue, headache, thirst, orthostatic hypotension)
- evaluate effectives of treatment
- monitor I&Os
- notfy HCP of UO <30mL/hr
venous thromboebolic conditions
- potentially serious complication of PP
- one of the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity
- inflammation of blood vessel lining
most common types of thromboembolic conditions
- superficial thrombosis: confined to lower leg
- deep vein thrombosis: LE, varies from foot to iliofemoral region
- pulmonary embolism: complications of DVT in blood
PE s/s
- dyspnea
- pleuritic chest pain
- cough w/ or w/o blood
- cyanosis
- tachypena
- tachycardia
- panic
- sudden hypotension
- diaphoresis
- wheezing, rales, friction rub
nursing care for SVT
- admin NSAIDs for analgesia
- facilitate rest
- elevate affect leg
- apply warm compress to promote healing
- use antiembolic stockings to promote circulation
nursing care for DVT
- bed rest or limited ambulation
- elevate affected leg
- apply antiembolic stockings or SCDs
- admin LMWH
- monitor aPTT, PTT, and platelets
- apply warm compresses
- administer analgesics
- expect to admin oral analgesics for several days
nursing care of PE
- institute emergency measrues immediately
- admin O2
- initiate LMWH IV
- maintain bed rest
- admin analgesics
- be preped to admin thrombolytics
postpartum infection
- any clinical infection of gential tract within 28days after miscarriage, abortion, or birth
- defined as fever >100.4 after 1st 24hrs
- organsisms usually those of normal flora
- most common, endometritis, surgical site infections, UTIs, and mastitis
endometritis
- uterine infection typically developing within 2-4 days to as late as 6wks PP
- involves endometrium, decidua, and adjacent myometrium of uterus
- broad spectrum antibiotics, measures to restore and promote fluid and electrolytes and analgesic pain relief
surgical site infection
- may not show until 24-48hrs
- s/s: weeping or purulent drainage, separation, edema, erythema, tenderness, discomfort, fever, elevated WBCs
- therapuetic management: opening of wound to allow drainage, aseptic wound management, hydration, frequent perineal pad changes, ambulation, antibiotics, analgesics
urinary tract infections
- urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria, lower abdominal pain, cloudy urine w/ strong odor
- can be prevented by timely removal of catheters
- therapuetic management: fluids to prevent dehydration, antibiotics
mastitis
- inflammation of mammory gland
- occurs within 2days to 2wks PP
- s/s: flu like symptoms, tender, hot painful areas of one breast, inflammation of breast, tenderness, cracking of skin around nipple or areola, breast distention w/ milk
- management: increase frequency of breastfeeding, antibiotics, ice or warm packs, analgesics
nursing assessment and management
- play role in ID s/s of infection
- assess risk factors by reviewing hx
- ID early subtle s/s
- BUBBLEEE
- REEDA
- inspect wounds
- maintain aeseptic technique while performing invasive procedures
- monitor labs and VS
- monitor frequency of vaginal exams and length of labor
- encourage rest, adequate hydration, and healthy eating habits
- provide education on preventative measures
PP psych disorders
- baby blues
- postpartum depression
- postpartum psychosis
- posttraumatic stress disorder
baby blues
- mild
- occurs in 50-70% of mothers
- typically occurs within 2-4 days
- lasts about 2weeks
- assure mother it is normal
postpartum depression
- similar to baby blues but includes feelings of worthlessness, lack of concern of overall apperance, irritability or hostility toward baby and suicidial ideation
PP depression management
- individaul group therapy
- antidepressants
- continue to breastfeed
postpartum psychosis
- sleep disturbances
- depersonalization
- confused, irrational, or disorganized thinking
- bizarre behavior
- psychomotor disturbances (stupor, agitation, rapid and incoherrant speech)
nursing management for PP psych issues
- review hx and ID risks
- be alert for physical findings through activity level, fatigue, sleeping habits
- observe anxiety and ability to conentrate
- assess nutritional intake
- educate about enormous changes that occur during PP period and provide material about PP emotional disorders
- assist in learning how to ask for help
- have resources
transition to extrauterine life
- neonatal period: first 28 days of life
- transition begins when umbilical cord is cut and neonates take first breath
- nruses role is to assess, moitor, and support neonates as they go through changes
respiratory system fetus vs newborn
fetus: fluid filled, high pressure system causing blood to be shunted from lungs through ductus arteriosus to rest of body
newborn: air-filled, low pressure system encouraging blood flow through lungs for gas exchange, increased o2 content in blood of lungs contributing to closing of ductus arteriosis
gas exchange fetus vs newborn
fetus - placenta
newborn - lungs
circulation throuhg heart fetus vs newborn
Fetus:
- pressures in RA > LA
- encourages blood flow through foramen ovale
Newborn:
- pressures in LA > RA causing foramen ovale to close
hepatic portal circualtion fetus vs newbron
Fetus:
- ductus venosus bypassess; maternal liver performs filtering functions
Newborn:
- ductus venosus closes (becomes a ligament)
- hepatic portal circualtion begins
thermoregulation fetus vs newborn
fetus:
- body temp maintained by maternal body temp and warmth of intrauterine environment
newborn: body temp maintained through flexed posture and brown fat
thermoregulation
- process maintaining balance between heat loss and heart production in order to maitnain body’s core internal temperature
- neutral thermal environment needed to support neonate during transition
- newborns dependent on environment for maintenance of body temp immediately after birth
- maintaining stable temp is critcial to survival
characteritiscs predisposing newborns to heat loss
- thin skin; blood vessels close to surface
- lack of shivering ability
- limited use of volutnary muscles
- large body surface area relative to weight
- lack of subq fat
- no ability to adjust own clothing or blankets to acheive warmth
- infants cannot communicate they are too cold or too warm
heart production
primarily through non-shivering thermogenesis which is metabolism of brown adipose tissue
- located in neck, thorax, axillary area, intrascapular aras and sround adrenal glands
- metabolism of borwn tissue promotes heat production through lipid breakdown and transfers heat to peripheral system
- limited amount in premature infants
convection heat loss
- involves flow of heat from body surface to cooler surrounding air to air circulating over body surface
- ex. cool breeze, room, outside air
strategies to prevent convenction
- increase temp in delivery room
- move away from air conditioning
- use radiant warmer
- monitor temp frequently until neutral thermal conditions are established
conduction heat loss
- involves transfer of heat loss from one object o another when two objects are in direct contact
- refers to heat fluctuation between newborn’s body surface while in contact with other solid surfaces
prevention of conduction
- prewarm bed or cover with several layers of warm blankets
- cover scale with a prewarmed blanket
- position nebworn in flexed position
- place blanket over chemical mattress
- limit use of hot water bottles
- educate parents
- NEVER RAPIDLY WARM INFANT
radiation heat loss
- involves loss of body heat to cooler, solid surfaces that are not in direct contact but within proximity
- placed next to cold window, using cold equpment
prevention of radiation heat loss
- prewarm incubator
- move away from windows
- use radiant warmer with servo control
- use heat lamps as last resort
evaporation heat loss
- involves heat loss when liquid is converted to vapor
- ex. baby covered in amniotic fluid, bathing
prevention of evaporation
- place newborn skin to skin
- dry with warm blankets
- warm room
- bathe quickly and dry and dress
- avoid overheating adn rapid rewarming which can cause vasodialtion
- avoid situations contibuting to cold stress which can cause vasoconstriction
cold stress
- excessive heat loss resulting in utilization of compensatory mechanisms
- occurs when there is a decreased environmental temp causing decrease in neonates body temp causing respiratory distress and other serious outcomes
- consequences of cold stress: hypoglycemia, hypoxia, metabolic acidosis, decreased surfactant, respiratory distress, increased bilirubin and jaundice, poor feeds and weight loss, apnea, death
s/s of cold stress
- temp <97.7
- cool skin
- restlessness
- crying
- pale ro mottled
- acrocyansosis
- tachypnea
- grunting
- hypoglycemia
- hypotonia
- lethargy
- jittery
- weak suck
prevative measures for cold stress
- dry neonate thoroughly after birth
- place cap on head
- provide skin to skin
- use prewarmed blankets
- prewarmed equipment
- delay bath until temp is stable
- bathe infant under radiant warmer
- place infant away from air vents
- open windows
- place infant away from outside walls and windows
- educate parents on keeping newborn warm
if cold stress is suspected
- monitor temo
- place cap on head and place in skin to skin
- assess and correct environmental conditions
- reassess temp in 30 min
- obtain heel stick to asses for hypoglycemia
- place under warmer if temp doesn’t regulate within 30in
hepatic system of newborn
- slowly assumes function after birth (iron storage, carb metabolism, conjugation of bilrubin)
GI system of newborn
- not fully mature at birth but can rapidly adapt to demands
- bowel sounds heard within 1st hour of life
- gastric size 6mL/g 15-24 mL for most infants
- intake of colostrum is 2-10mL/feed for first 24hrs
- after first 24hrs, 30-60mL/feed by day 4
- stomach emptying is 2-4hrs
- cardiac sphincter and nervous system control of stomach immature leading to regurgitation and uncoordingated peristaltic activity
- breast milk digested faster than formula
- breastfed infants feed q2-3hrs
- formula infants feed q3-4hrs
newborn stool
- meconium, then transitional stool, than milk stool
- breast-fed newborns: yellow gold, losse, stringy, pasty, sour-smelling
- formula: yellow, yellow-green, loose, pasty, or formed, unpleasant odor
renal system in newborns
- control fluid and electrolyte balance and excretion of waste
- kidneys are initally immature which puts neonate at risk for overhydration, dehydration, electrolytes, or drugs
- full term excrete 15-60mL/kg of urine/day
- all newborns need to void within first 24hrs
- usually lose 5-10% of birth weight during first week
meconium is expected days
1-2
transitional stool expected days
3-4
breast fed stool or formula fed stool expected days
3-4
immune system of infants
- essential to newborn’s survival and ability to respond to hostile environment
- immune system begins workin in early gestation peaking at 32-33wks relying on passive immunity from mom
- risk for acquiring infection
- being to produce own antibodies at 2-3months of life
- immune system response: natural immunity (physical barriers, chemical barriers, resident nonpathological organisms), acquried immunity (development of circulating immunoglobulins, formation of activated lymphocytes and absent until after first invasion)
skin of newborn
- protective barrier
- limtis water loss
- prevents absorption of harmful agents
- protects thermoregulation
- fat sotrage
- protects against physical trauma
- accelerated epidermal development with expoure to air for newborns
- improper handling can cause damage, prevention of healing, and interance with normal maturation process
neurological adaptations
- development follows cephalocaudal and proximal distal patterns
- acute senses of hearing smell tase tocuh and vision
- adaptations of respiratory circulatory thermoregulatory and MSK systems indirectly indicating CNS transition
- reflexes are indication of neuro function
behavioral patterns
- 1st period of reactivity birth to 30 minuts to 2hrs after birth, alert, moving, appears hungry
- period of decreased responsiveness: 30-120min old, period of sleep or decreased activity
- 2nd period of reactivity: 2-8 hours, newborn awakens and show interest in stimuli
care of vigorous newborn
- skin to skin with warm blankets
- APGAR done at 1-5 minutes
- VS
- mother and baby give 1-1.5hrs of uniteruptred bonding
- breastfeeding
- delayed cord clamping for 30-60seconds
- lightweight clamp placed after 1/2-1inch from newborn skin
- do not suction unless absolutely necessary
signs indicating problem in newborn
- nasal flaring, chest retractions
- grunting on exhalation, labored breathing
- generalized cyanosis, flaccid body posture
- abnormal breath sounds
- abnormal RR
- abnormal HR
- abnormal size of newborn
APGAR scores rated on
- HR
- RR and effort
- muscle tone
- reflex irritability
- skin color
complete newborn assessment
- review prenatal hx
- done after intial bonding period
- requries head to toe along with length, weight, gestational age assessment
- length is 44-55cm normally and weight is 2500-4000g (5lb 8oz-8lb 8oz) full term
- low birth weight <2,500g (<5.5lb)
- very low birth weight <1,500g (<3.5lb)
- extremely low <1,000g (<2.5lbs)
gestational age assessment
- established from mothers LMP, ultrasound, and neonatal age assessment
- use of ballard scale helps estimate gestational age
- calculated using 6 physical and 6 neuromuscular characterstics
- examination determines weeks of gestation
- score uses gestation age based on weight length head circumfrence to determine if AGA, SGA, LGA
phytonadione
- privdese newborn with vitamin K for clotting facors
- prevents vitamin K deficiency bleeding
- give 1-2hrs after birth
- give IM injection (90) to outer middle third of vastus lateralis muscle
- use 25 gauge 5/8in needle
- hold leg firmly and inject meds slowly
- adhere to precautions
- monitor for bleeding
erythromycin
- prevents against bacterial eye infections
- be alert for s/s of conjunctivits
- wear glovesand open eyes by placing thumb and finger above and below eye
- gently squeeze tube or ampoule to apply meds to eye from inner to outer eye
- don’t touch tip of med to eye
- close eye to make sure med permeates
- wipe off excess after 1 min
physical exam
- done within first 24hrs
- should not be initiated if crying
- begin w/ least invasive first
- early recognition is key
- ensures proper evaluation and care
- each clinician has own approach
- want to look for normal vs abnormal findigns
normal skin findings
- pink, warm, acrocyanosis present
- milia present on bridge of nose and chin
- lanugo present on back, shoulder, and forehead
- peeling or crackin often noted >40wks gestation
- slate gray patches (mongolian spots)
- hemangiomas (stork bites), nevus flammeus (port-wine stain), strawberry hemangiomas
- stork bites often at nape of neck
abnormal skin findings
- central cyanosis after 10minutes of life
- jaundice within 24hrs
- pallor occuring w/ anemia, hypothermia, shock, or sepsis
- greenish or yellowish vernix indicating passage of meconium
- persistant ecchymosis or petechiae occuring with thrombocytopenai, sepsis, or congenital infection
- abundant lanugo in preterms
- thin and translucent skin
- nails >40week
- pilonidal dimple
nevus flammeus
portwine stain
nevus vasculosus
strawberry hemagliomas
head
should be symmetric and round
- inspect and palpate fontanells (should be soft, flat, and open
- palpate skull (should be smooth and fused except for fontanelles and sutures
- assess size of head
- measure head circumference
molding
change in head shape as a result of birth
caput succedaneum
build up of fluid that crosses suture lines
cephalematoma
bleeding under head causing hematoma of head that crosses suture line
face and nose
- observe for fullnes and symmetry
- should have full cheeks and be symmetric
- inspect nose for size, symmetry, position, and lesions
- nose should be midline with patent and equal size nares and intact spetum
- are preferential nose breathers and sneeze to clear if needed
mouth
- inspect
- lips should be pink, intact, positioned midline with no lesions
- inside of mouth should show alignment of mandible, intact soft and hard palate, sucking pads inside cheecks, midline uvula, free mvoing tongue, working gag, swallow and sucking reflex
- mucous memranes should be pink and most with minimal saliva present
- normal variation: epsetin pearls
normal eyes
- position should be midline with ears
- open, symmetrical, can follow objects
- edema may be present
- iris is blue gray or brown
- sclear is white or bluidh
- subconjunctival hemorrhage may be rpesent from birth
- pupil PERRLA
- red light reflex and blink reflex
- no tear production
- transient strabismus and nystagmus related to immature muscular control
abnormal eye findings
- absent red light reflex indicating cataracts
- unequal pupil reactions (neuro trauma)
- blue sclera (linked with osteogenesis imperfecta)
normal ears
- top of pinna aligned with external canthus of eye
- pinna without derformities
- neonate responds to noises and startles
- hearing becomes more acute as eustachian tubes clear
- neonates respond to high pitched vocal sounds
abnormal ear findings
- low set ears (linked with down syndrome)
- absent startle reflex
- skin tags, dimpling, other lesions can be associated with kidney abnormalities
neck
- inspect for head movement and ability to support head
- neck creasing is normal
- should move freely in all directoins
- can hold head midline
- inspect clavicle, should be straight and intact
- abnormal: webbing
chet and lungs normal findings
- barrel shaped
- symmetrical
- breast engorgment normal
- clear or milky fluid from nipples ormal
- lung sounds are clear and equal
- scattered crackles normal first few hours after birth
abnormal chest and lung findings
- pectus excavatum (funnel chest)
- pectus carinatum (pigeon chest)
- chest retractions
- persistent crackles, wheezes, stridor, grunting, paradoixal breathing, decresed breath shounds, apnea (>15-20 seconds)
- decreased or absent breath sounds (often related to meconium aspiration or pneumothorax)
normal abdominal findings
- soft, round, protuberant, symmetrical
- bowel sounds present, may be hypoactive
- passage of meconium stool within 48hrs
- cord is opaque or whitish blue with 2 arteries and one vein covered in wharton’s kelly
- skin around imbilical cord should be assess for infection and have no redness, swelling, drianage, or foul smell
- cord becomes dry and darker in color within 24hrs and falls off within 2wks
abnormal abdominal findings
- assymetric
- hernias
- one umbilical artery and vein (common with heart or kidney malformations)
- failure to pass meconium stool (common w/ perforated anus or meconium ileus)
female GU normal
- anus is patent
- passage of stool within 24hrs
- labia majora covers minora and clitoris
- may be swollen
- blood tinged vaginal discharge related to abrupt decrease in hormones
- whitish vaginal discharge observe in response to hormones
- urine may be dark with red color crystals (normal in first few days) called brick dust
abnormal female GU
- imperforated anus
- anal fissures or fistulas
- prominent clitoris and small ,visibile minora
- ambiguous genitalia
- no urination after 24hrs (can indicate urinary tract obstruction, polycystic disease, or renal failure)
male GU normal
- urinary meatus at tip of penis
- scrotum large, pendulous, and edematous with rugae
- both testes are palpateed
- neonates urine within 24hrs
- brick dust may be present
abnormal male GU
- hypospadis (urethra on ventral surface)
- epispadias (urethral opening on dorsal surface)
- undescended testes (cryptorchidism)
- hydrcele (enlarged scrotum
- no urination after 24hrs (can indicate urinary tract obstruction, polycystic disease, or renal failure)
- ambiguous genitalia
- inguinal hernia
MSK normal
- arms and legs symmetrical
- 10 fingers and toes
- full ROM in all extermities
- no clicks at joints
- equal fluteral folds
- C-shaped spine with no openings or dimpling
MSK abnormal
- polydactyl (extra digits)
- syndactyly (webbed digits)
- unequal gluteal folds (+ barlow sign and ortolani manuevers signaling congential hip dysplasia)
- decreased ROM or muscle tone: birth injury, neuro disorder, preamturity
- swelling, crepitus, or neck tenderness = possible broken clavicle
- simian creases, short fingers, wide space between big toe and second are common with down syndrome
- vertebrae openings may indicate spin bifida
- dimpling of sinuses may indicate pilonidal cyst or more serious neuro disorder
neuro normal
- flexed position
- rapid recoil of extremities
- reflexes
abnormal neuro
- hypotonia: floppy, limp, related to possible nerve injury related to birth, CNS depression related ot maternal meds, fetal hypoxia, prematurity, or spinal cord injury
- hypertonia: tightly flexed arms and stiffly extended legs with quviering indicate drug withdrawl
- paralysis indicating birth trauma or spinal injury
- tremors due to hypoglycemia, drug withdrawl, or cold stress
blinking reflex disappears
NEVER
stays into adulthood
moro reflex reflex disappears
- 3-6months
- startle reflex
grasp reflex disappears
- 3-4 months
- grasp onto hand or figer
stepping reflex
- disappears 1-2 months
- steps down when placed upward
tonic neck
- fencing position
- disappears 3-4 months
sneeze reflex
- persists
rooting reflex
- leaves 4-6 months
- baby turns toward stimulation near mouth
gag reflex
- persists
cough reflex
persists
babinski sign
- leaves around 12 months
- curling of toes when palpated
nursing interventions for newborns
- montior VS
- monitor I&Os
- perform newborn screenings
- educate parents on care
circumcision care
- assist w/ circ
- assess after for bleeding
- for gumco, change vaseline gauze with each void
- note first void
- educate parents on care
hearing screening
- screened before discharge
- must be conducted in quiet room
- those who fail need follow up at 1 month
congenital heart disease screening
if fail the first one, perform second after 1hr, if failed 2nd perform another after 1hr, if failed again contact cardio
hyperbilirubenemia
- extreme levels can be toxic causing kernicterus (acute bilirubin encephalopathy) causing sever and permanent neurological daamge
- levels interpreted according to infants age in hours
hyperbilrubienmia information
- results from overproduction of bilirubin which is end product of hemoglobin breakdown
- newborn is at risk for higher RBC mass to bodyweight, shorter RBC lifespan, higher bilrubin production, lack of intestinal bacteria, decreased GI motility, and increased beta-flucuroidase, decreased hepatic uptake of plasma, diminished conjugation of bilrubin in liver to decreased glucuronyl transferase activity
bilirubin levels showing jaundice
> 5mg/dL
clinical significance of bilirubin levels is based off
- gestational age
- hours of llife
- and TSB levels
complications of hyperbilirubenemia
- acute bilrubin ecephalopathy
- kernicterus
physiological jaundice
- appears AFTER 24 hours of life
- typically due to newborn’s increased RBC and shorter RBC lifespan, slower uptake of bilirubin by liver, lack of intestinal bacteria ad hydration
- peaks at around 3-5days of life
pathological jaundice
- occurs BEFORE 24 hrs of life
- result of hemolytic disease or liver’s inability to conjuagte and excrete excess bilirubin from hemolysis
- peak is variable
common reason for hemolytic disease of newborn
ABO incompatiability
Rh incompatiabiltiy
Rh incompatibility
- Rh+ newborn with + Coombs test
- increase erythropoeisis with many immature RBCs
- anemia
- eleavted levels of bilrubin in cord blood
- reduction in albumin binding capacity
ABO incompatiability
- increase in reticulocytes
- direct coombs negative
- indirect coombs positive
coombs test
tests antibodies or complement proteins
caring for infant under phototherapy
- position phototherapy lights 12-16 inches away
- measure irradiance 1x a shifrt
- protect eyes and gonads
- change position frequently
- monitor vitals
- maintain adequate hydration
- monitor I&Os
- weight infant daily
- discontinue eye patches for feeding and parent visits
- assess for side effects (loos stools, dehydration, skin rashes, hyperthermia, lethargy, dehydration)
hypoglycemia
- blood glucose levels <40-45
- common during transition, especially in neonates with complications
- s/s: jitteriness, tremors, irritability, tachypnea, grunting, seizures, apnea, hypotonia, lethargy, hypothermia, cyanosis, poor feeds
- nurses responsibility to check
assessment findings of IDM
- macrosomia
- fractured clavicle or brachial nerve injury
- hypoglycemia, calcemia, and magnesemia
- polycythemia (increase RBC)
- hyperbilirubinemia
- low muscle tone, lethargy
- poor feeds
- RDS
nursing interventions
- early feeds within 1hr of life, recheck after 30minutes
- may need bolus of D10W and admission to NICU if symptomatic
- may need continuous IVF
- feed q2-3hrs and check glucose before each feeds for 12hrs
- new research recomending dextrose gel for asymptomatic infants with levels 20-40
infant of diabetic mother
- macrosomia occurs in 40-50% of diabetic pregnancies due to high levels of glucose crossing the placenta in response, fetal pancreas produces insulin resulting in increased production and growth
- large body and normal head circumference because insulin does not cross blood brain barrier
nursing management of IDM
- assess for s/s of respiratory distress, birth trauma, congenital abnormalities, hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, polycythemia, hyperbilrubemia
- provide early and frequent feedings
- obtain labs
- maintain NTE to reduce energy levels
large for gestational age
- weight >90th percentile
- macrosomic >4000g
- leading cause is diabetic mother
LGA at risk for
- c-section or operative birth
- shoulder dystocia
- birth trauma
- hypoglycemia
- polycythemia and hyperbilirubinemia
- perinatal asphyxia
- respiratory distress
- meconium aspiration
risk factors for LGA
- maternal diabetes
- multiparity
- previous macrosomic baby
- prolonged pregnancy
- increased maternal weight gain in pregnancy ad maternal obesity
nursing management of LGA
- review risk factors and hx
- assess respiratroy status
- assess for birth trauma
- obtain and monitor glucose
- provide early and frequent feeds
- monitor labs
- assess skin color for signs of polycythemia
- perfom gestational age assesment
- observe for jaundice
small for gestation age
- weighs <10th perctile
- can be preterm, term, or post-term
- commonly seen with mothers who smoke or HTN
IUGR vs SGA
- all IUGR babies are small for gestational age
- NOT all small for gestational age babies are IUGR
- IUGR occurs in utero and is a result of uterine insult
symmetric IUGR
- refers to fetuses with equally poor growth rates of brain, abdomen, long bones, and thought to be from global insult
- all parameters of growth affected
- all body parts are symmetric in proprotion
- head does not appear overly large or length excessive in relation to body
- below normal size
- generally vigorous
asymmetric IUGR
- refers to infants who brain growth is spared in comparison to abdomen and internal organs
- results from maternal or placental conditions that occur later in pregnancy and impeded placental bloodflow
- appears long, thin, emaciated with loss of subq fat tissue and muscle
- may have loose skin folds and dry skin and thin meconium stained cord
- vigorous cry and appear alert and wide-eyed
SGA at risk for
- labor intoelrance
- meconium aspiration
- hypoglycemia
- hypocalcemia
nursing managemet for SGA
- review risks and hx
- perform gestational age assessment
- assess for respiratory distress
- maintain NTE
- monitor for hypoglycemia
- early and frequent feeds
- monitor labs
- daily weights
- monitor VS
premature infant facts
- 1/10 infants born premature
- any infant born before 37wks is considered premature
- premature infant is NOT SGA
- preamature infants are categorized by gestation age and weight
hx and assessment to ID premie
- mother: LMP, OB hx, med hx
- newborn: ballard or dubowitz
nursing management of premie
- maintain NTE
- provide respiratory support
- monitor vitals
- strict I&Os
- monitor labs and fluids and electrolytes as ordered
- admin IVF as rodered
- administer feedings
- admin meds as ordered
- encourage kangarro care and support parents
respiratory distress syndrome
- results from small underdeveloped alveoli and insufficient levels of pulmonary surfactant
- causes an alteration in alveoli surface ension that eventually results in atelectasis
- S/S: tachypnea, grunting, retractions, nasal flaring, lethargic, hypotonic, decreased breath sounds turning into crackles, increasing o2 demand, tachycardia
- medical management: surfactant, ABGs, repsiratory support, blood cultures, antibiotics
surfactant
- natural or syntehtic
- administered via ET
- can be administered iva thin catheter or laryngeal mask
- reduces surface tesnion of alveoli preventing collapse
- enhances lung complicance to allow easier breathing
- improves oxygenation
- adminsitered prophylactically within 15 minutes of birth or rescue therapy within 6hrs of birth
nursing management for RDS
- provide respiratory support as ordred
- monitor VS
- monitor labs and ABGs
- maintain neutral thermal environment
- monitor I&Os
- cluster care
- assist with admin of surfactant
- support parents
postterm infant
- inability of placenta to provide adequate o2 and nutrients to fetus after 42 weeks
- infant shows dry, cracked, wrinkled skin, possibly meconium stained
- has long thin extremities; long nails, creases cover entire soles of feet
- wide eyed and alert
- abundant hair on scalp
- thin umbilical cord
- limited vernix and lanugo
nursing management of postterm infants
- monitor for complications
- monitor for blood glucose
- initate early and frequent feedings
- monitor vitals
- maintain NTE
- monitor labs
- monitor I&Os
- support parents
transient tachypnea of newborn
- inadequate or delayed clearance of lung fluid leading to pulmonary edema
- experience a mild degree of respiratory distress requiring minimal intervention
- liquid removed slowly or incompletetly
- resolved by 72hrs of age
- CXR, mild symmetric lung hyperaeration, prominent erpihilar institial marks and streaks
s/s of transietn tachypnea of newborn
- maternal sedation or bith by cesaerean
- tachypnea
- expiratory grunting
- retractions
- labored breathing
- nasal flaring
- mild cyanosis
- tachypnea
- barrel shaped chest
- slightly lower breath sounds
nuring management of TTn
- supportive
- provide adequate oxygenation via oxygood or nasal cannula
- admin IVF
- admin gavage feedings
- maintain NTE
- monitor vitals
- support parents
meconium aspiration syndrome
- occurs when newborn inhales particulate meconium mixed with amniotic fluid into lungs while inutero or taking first breath after birth
- can result in obstruction of upper airways, if progresses to lower airways, air trapping and hyperinfalation of alveoli distant to obstruction increases risk of air leaks into surroundin tissue
- can also cause chemical pneumonitis and inhibit surfactant action
s/s MAS
- meconium stained amniotic fluid
- greenish or yellowish discoloration of skin, nailbeds, and umbilical cord
- respiratory distress at birth (requiring resuscitation) or within a few hours
- low APGAR
- barrel-shaped and overdistended chest
- extended expiratory phase of breathing
- diminished airmovement, presence of rales and rhonchi
- CXR: atelectasis and hyperinflated lungs
- ABGs: low PaO2 despite 100% O2 and possible respiratory and metabolic acidosis
nursing management of MAS
- maintain NTE
- cluster care
- administer o2 as ordered
- monitor vitals
- monitor labs and ABGs
- admin vasopressors and antibiotics as ordered
- provide support to parents
infection
- clinical syndrome of bactermia within first month of life
- neonatal sepsis: bacterial, fungal, or viral microorganisms of toxins in blood and other tisses
- congenital, early onset, or late onset
nursing assessment for infant infection
- early symptoms vague
- poor feeding
- breathing difficulty
- apnea
- bradycardia
- GI problems
- increased o2 requirement
- lethargy
- hypotension
- temp instability
- unusual skin rash or color changes
- persistent crying/irritability
- labs: elevated CRP, abnormal CBC, CXR, blood cx, urine cx, CSF
- initial treatment: ampicillin, gentamycin
nursing management of infant infection
- asses maternal and neonatal risk factors
- monitor vitals, I&Os, labs,
- daily weights
- monitor for s/s of infection
- assess with diagnostics
- admin antibiotics, IVF, and feedings
- support parents
hx of newborns exposed to illicit substances
- maternal hx of known drug abuse
- no prenatal care
- obtain meconium and urine
- physical assessment
abusing mothers
- most common: tobacco, alcohol, marijuana
- fetal alcohol syndrome: physical, mental disroder apperaing at birth and remaining problematic
- fetal alcohol sepctrum disorders
- alcohol related birth defects
- neonatal abstinence syndrome: drug dependency acquired in utero manifested by nero and physical behaviors
fetal alcohol spectrum signs
- small eyes
- thin upper lip
- short palpebral fissues
- flat midface
- short noise
- low nasal bridge
- ear abnormalities
- micrognathia
nursing management of FAS
- quiet, dim environment
- consistent caregivers
- provide adequate nutrition
- support parents and provide positive reinforcement
s/s of infant substance disorders
- tremors and irritability
- generalized seizures
- hyperactive reflexes
- restlessness
- exagerrated moro reflex
- hypertonic muscle tone
- shrill high pitched excessive cry
- disturbed sleep patterns
- fever
- yawning
- mottling of skin
- sweating
- frequent sneezing
- nasal flaring
- tachypnea >60breathpm
- apnea
- poor feedings
- franctic sucking or rooting
- loose or watery stools
- regurgitation or projectile vomiting
nursing management of NAS/NOWS
- provide quiet, dimly lit area
- perform neonatal abstinence scoring
- provide small ,frequent feedings
- admin meds as ordered
- swadlle with hands near mouth and provide pacifier
- gently, rocking infant if crying
- protect from excoriation using clothing with built in mittens
- apply protective barrier to groin area every diaper change