The nervous system

Question 1

What is Epilepsy?

Answer 1

Epilepsy- condition in which neurons in a region is stimulated to contract uncoordinated

• Epilepsy-minimise risk of seizures during the pregnancy: epilen teratogenic effects of the baby. Refer to neurologist. Specific medication can control specific epilepsy fits.
Vital that a woman with epilepsy is counselled before pregnancy and her medication is altered and to ensure that the new regime is controlled before trying to conceive.

Question 2

What is Multiple sclerosis?

Answer 2

Multiple sclerosis-antenatal anaesthetic review lose sensation in hands and legs. So if wanting an epidural neurological wellbeing is assessed.

Question 3

Intrapartum care

Answer 3

Place of birth: spina bifida and epilepsy in the hospital
• Additional equipment-hoists
• Anaesthetic review-epidural and anaesthesia
• One to one care in labour
• Mobility and positions in labour

Question 4

Postnatal care

Answer 4

• Breastfeeding and medication:
• Bathing baby
• Changing nappies
• Transporting baby
Women with epilepsy can never have a bath
• Known diagnosis of epilepsy-women should be cared for in a hospital bay near the staff station to ensure visibility of seizures. Unless a visitor ( partner or family member) can be there 24/7.

Question 5

Neonate

Answer 5

• At birth, the nervous system of a full-term neonate is not fully developed
• A range of reflexes enable the neonate to carry out basic functions
• Rooting reflex
• Sucking reflex
• Swallowing reflex
• Blinking

Question 6

Blood-brain barrier

Answer 6

• At term the blood-brain barrier is not fully developed , leaving the neonatal brain more vulnerable to toxic substances in the bloodstream
• Bilirubin