Page 159 - Critical Maternity & Newborn Health Nursing

• Postpartum observation for 48 hours is essential as the risk of heart

failure is high in this period. Although bed rest is essential. early

ambulation is desirable to avoid thromboembolism.

• Breast feeding is allowed unless there is heart failure. Estrogens

should not be used to suppress lactation and bromocriptine or

lisuride can be used.

• Sterilization may be advised if decompensation occurred in this

pregnancy.

Nursing Care of Cardiac Disease during pregnancy

Nursing assessment:

History:

• History of dyspnea, palpitation and easy fatigability.

• Identify other factors that would increase strain on heart e.g. nemia

an d infection and anxiety.

• Family history of HD.

• Determine the woman's activity level including rest.

Examination:

Determine the functional capacity of the heart in each antenatal visit by

taking the woman's pulse and respiration and BP.

Nursing care during antenatal period:

Nursing actions are directed toward meeting the physiological and

psychosocial needs of the pregnant woman. the priority of nursing actions

varies, depending on the severity of the disease process

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