Page 160 - Critical Maternity & Newborn Health Nursing

Promotion of adequate nutrition:

• A diet should be rich in iron, protein and essential nutrients.

• Low sodium.

Promotion of rest:

• Rest in necessary to reduce the workload of the heart.

• 8 - 10 hours of sleep are essential with daily rest period.

• The patient should be instructed to rest on the left side.

• Lateral recumbent position to facilitate blood flow to the fetus.

Protection from infection:

• Woman must be informed about the importance of protecting

herself from infection, especially upper respiratory infection, and

stress on the heart.

• Teach the patient to report signs and symptoms of infection.

Promotion of client acceptance of the need to restrict activity:

• Decreased exertion reduces fatigue and promotes adequate

ventilation and preservation of cardiac reserves.

Monitoring of cardiac status:

During the first half of pregnancy the woman is seen every 2 weeks.

During the second half she is seen every week especially between weeks

28-30 in order to:

• Assess cardiac status.

• Assess if symptoms of cardiac decompensation occur.

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