The physiological and bodily changes that occur with pregnancy, and essential physical assessment techniques and diagnostic tests that assist nurses in acquiring important information about the health of both mother and baby. The high-risk obstetrical patient with preeclampsia, peripartum cardiomyopathy, and post-partum hemorrhage are discussed. [75 minutes]
Key Content
- Major Physiological Changes during Pregnancy, Post-Partum Period: Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, Metabolic Function
- Physical Assessment of Pregnant Patient - Focus: Neurological Status, Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Uterine Size, Fundal Height, Hematological Changes
- Brief Review - Fetal Heart Rate and Activity: Oxygen Delivery, Maternal-Arterial Oxygen Content, Uterine Blood Flow, and Hemoglobin Concentration
- Three Obstetrical Conditions: 1) Preeclampsia (blood pressure control, seizure prophylaxis), 2) Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (current pharmacological options, serum biomarkers), 3) Post-Partum Hemorrhage (fluid resuscitation, vasopressors and inotropes, mechanical ventilation, nutritional requirements, and management of shock)
- Interactive Case Studies