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Lesson 6: Prenatal Care During Pregnancy
The prenatal period is a preparatory time for the mother to prepare herself both physically and psychologically. It is a time of immense anxiety, excitement, and learning. The best way to ensure the health of both the expectant mother and her infant is through early and attentive prenatal care. Close supervision will allow health care professionals to identify and possibly treat maternal disorders that may have been preexistent or developed during the pregnancy. This lesson will include what occurs during the prenatal visits.
a.
Abortion. Termination of pregnancy before the fetus is viable and capable of extrauterine existence.b.
Conjugate. An important diameter of the pelvis, measured from the center of the promontory of the sacrum to the back of the symphysis pubis.c.
Ischial Spines. Two relatively sharp, bony projections protruding into the pelvic outlet from the ischial bone that form the lower lateral border of the pelvis. They are used when determining the progress of the fetus down the birth canal.d.
Ischial Tuberosities. A major bony, sitting support; important in measuring a transverse diameter of the pelvis.e.
Miscarriage. Spontaneous abortion; lay term usually referring specifically to the loss of the fetus between the fourth month and viability.f.
Placenta Abruptio. Premature separation of a normally, implanted placenta.g.
Placenta Previa. A placenta that is implanted in the lower uterine segment so that it adjoins or covers the internal os of the cervix.h.
Term Pregnancy. A gestation of 38 to 42 weeks.i.
Toxoplasmosis. A congenital disease characterized by lesions of the central nervous system which may lead to blindness, brain defects, and death.6-3. PRINCIPLES OF PRENATAL CARE
a.
Definition. Antepartal or prenatal care refers to the medical and nursing supervision and care given to the pregnant patient during the period between conception and the onset of labor.b.
Objectives of Prenatal Care. During the initial visit, the objectives are directed toward confirming a diagnosis of pregnancy and beginning the process of data collection to act as a basis for ongoing prenatal care. These objectives include:(1) Prevention of complication.
(2) Modification of those complications that may develop.
(3) Support of the patient's goal to carry the infant to term and deliver a healthy baby.
(4) Education of the mother-to-be and her family for the parenting role.
(5) Inclusion of the family as a whole in the concept of "family-centered maternity care."
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c.
Health Care Professionals. Health care professionals involved in the administration of the prenatal care includes:(1) Physicians. They are primarily involved in diagnosing normal and abnormal conditions associated with the childbearing cycle.
(2) Nursing personnel. Nursing personnel includes the nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses. Nursing personnel serves as teachers, counselors, and resource personnel. They have the responsibility to develop and implement nursing care plans.
(3) Others. Other health care personnel that are involved in prenatal care are:
(a) Dietitians.
(b) Laboratory technicians.
(c) Social services.
(d) Occupational therapists.
(e) Similar support personnel.
d.
Choice of Health Care Professionals. The pregnant patient is responsible to choose the type of individual she prefers to consult for prenatal supervision and care. She may choose a private obstetrician, family practice physician, clinic with no control over which physician provides the care, or a nurse midwife. The primary concern is whether the individual she chooses meets her goals, desires, and expectations.e.
Early Care. Early, competent care is essential for the patient to avoid unnecessary risks to herself and her fetus.
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