Pregnancy & Labor Basics
What is Nagele’s Rule, and how is it used to calculate the due date?
Take the first day of the last menstrual period, subtract 3 months, add 7 days, and add one year.
What is HELLP syndrome, and why is it dangerous?
Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelet count; it is a life-threatening condition associated with preeclampsia.
What is the diagnostic test performed to verify rupture of membranes?
Nitrazine test or amniotic fluid fern test.
What is Betamethasone used for in pregnancy?
To accelerate fetal lung maturity in cases of preterm labor.
What nursing interventions should be performed in the case of a prolapsed cord?
Call for immediate assistance, elevate the presenting part off the cord, place the patient in knee-chest or Trendelenburg position, apply warm sterile saline soaked towel to visible cord, prepare for immediate vaginal birth if fully dilated or c-section if not.
What are the positive indicators of pregnancy?
Fetal heartbeat, ultrasound showing fetus, fetal movement felt by examiner.
What are the risk factors for preterm premature rupture of membranes?
Infection, smoking, prior preterm birth, 2nd/3rd trimester bleeding, low BMI
What does a quad marker screening test for?
Screens for potential genetic conditions like Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and neural tube defects. Measures 3 proteins and a hormone to find out likelihood of fetal birth defects.
What is the treatment to prevent the spread of STIs to a newborn’s eyes?
Erythromycin ointment.
When is Rho(D) immune globulin administered?
Administered to Rh-negative mothers during pregnancy at 28 weeks, after the birth of an Rh-positive baby, and after amniocentesis.
What are the differences between true and false contractions?
True contractions lead to cervical dilation and are regular, increasing in intensity and duration.
False contractions (Braxton Hicks) are irregular, do not result in cervical change, and often diminish with activity or rest.
What is a sign of postpartum psychosis?
Hallucinations, delusions, confusion, paranoia, extreme mood swings.
What is the purpose of percutaneous umbilical blood sampling?
To test for fetal blood disorders, infections, or genetic abnormalities. The most common method used for fetal blood sampling and transfusion.
What IV fluids are used to treat hyperemesis gravidarum?
Lactated Ringer’s solution.
What nursing interventions should be taken for late decelerations during labor?
Reposition the mother to the left side, administer oxygen, stop oxytocin if running, increase IV fluids, and call the provider.
What are the physiological changes that occur in the cardiovascular system during pregnancy?
Increased blood volume, heart rate, and cardiac output; decrease in peripheral vascular resistance.
What is placenta previa, and how is it managed during pregnancy?
Where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. Management often includes bed rest and cesarean delivery if the placenta still covers the cervix at the time of labor.
What is the MSAFP (Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein) test, and what conditions does it screen for?
MSAFP is a blood test performed during pregnancy to screen for neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly, as well as chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.
What antibiotic is typically used for rupture of membranes to prevent infection?
Ampicillin or Penicillin G is commonly used, especially for Group B Streptococcus prophylaxis if the mother is GBS positive.
What are the nursing interventions following an amniotomy (artificial rupture of membranes)?
Monitor fetal heart rate before and after the procedure, assess amniotic fluid color and odor, check for signs of infection, and monitor the mother for signs of labor progression.
What are the phases and stages of labor, and what occurs during each?
What are the signs/symptoms and risks of an ectopic pregnancy?
Signs include sharp unilateral lower abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding. Risks include IUD, STIs, increased age, previous ectopic pregnancy
What is chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and what are its risks?
prenatal test that takes a sample of placental tissue to test for genetic abnormalities. Risks include miscarriage, infection, and Rh sensitization.
What nursing education should be given to a client with gestational diabetes?
Dietary changes/Nutrition, exercise, blood glucose monitoring, educating on signs of hypoglycemia, and insulin therapy if needed.
What are the priority complications to monitor for after a C-section, and how should they be managed?
Monitor for signs of infection, hemorrhage, thromboembolism, and respiratory complications. Management includes early ambulation, wound care, and monitoring vital signs closely.