Heart Disease And Pregnancy Flashcards
By Prof Adegbola
What position should women with heart disease be nursed in during labor?
Cardiac position
This helps to manage their condition more effectively.
What type of monitoring is essential during labor for pregnant women with heart disease?
Continuous fetal heart rate monitoring and monitoring of vital signs closely
Strict intake and output charts are also necessary.
What is the preferred oxytocic for the third stage of labor in women with heart disease?
Oxytocin
It is preferred due to its safety profile in this population.
What is a significant risk in the postpartum period for women with heart disease?
Risk of pulmonary edema
This risk persists 24 to 72 hours after delivery, especially in the first 12 hours.
What follow-up is recommended after discharge for women with heart disease who have given birth?
Appointment with the cardiologist and obstetrician
Cardiovascular responses do not completely normalize until 7 months after delivery.
What percentage of women have some form of cardiac disease during pregnancy?
1% to 3%
This includes women with pre-existing conditions or those diagnosed during pregnancy.
What is the purpose of preconceptional care for women with heart disease?
To bring the medical condition to a stable state before conception
This is necessary for a favorable pregnancy outcome.
What is the classification system used for heart diseases?
Class I, Class II, Class III, Class IV
These classes help in assessing the severity and management of cardiac conditions.
What conditions can precipitate heart failure during pregnancy?
- Fever
- Malaria
- Infections (UTI, Respiratory)
- Stress
- Anaemia
- Fluid overload
- Arrhythmias
Early identification and management of these conditions is crucial.
What are the four classes of heart disease?
Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, and Class 4.
Which class of heart disease is characterized by no limitation of physical activity?
Class 1.
Which class of heart disease includes patients who are unable to carry on any physical activity without discomfort?
Class 4.
What symptom might patients in Class 2 heart disease experience during physical activity?
Mild symptoms such as fatigue or shortness of breath.
What does Class 1 heart disease indicate about a patient’s daily activities?
They can perform normal activities without symptoms.
Which class of heart disease would likely require significant lifestyle modifications?
Class 4.
