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Exam 2: Chapters 6,7,8,9,10,11, Everyone: For final exam studying please highlight everything that was on the unit exam in this color. Thanks! Unit 3: Pregnancy and Fetal Development ○ Chapter 6 (Module 6): Module- Fetal Lifespan
The most critical stage because of organogenesis. Major organs and external structures begin to form, making this the most vulnerable period for teratogens. ● Week 3–4: Neural tube closes; heart begins forming. ● Week 5–6: Heartbeat detectable on ultrasound; liver begins RBC production. ● Week 6–7: Brain waves present. ● Week 8: All essential organs present in basic form; the embryo looks human.
At week 9, the developing baby is called a fetus. Growth and maturation are the main focus, with refinement of all systems. ● Week 9–12: External genitalia differentiate; kidneys make urine; intestines return to abdomen. ● Week 13–16: Lanugo begins; skeletal ossification; early quickening may be felt. ● Week 17–20: Vernix covers skin, lanugo present, brown fat deposits begin. ● Week 21–24: Surfactant begins; fetus considered age of viability (~24 weeks). ● Week 25–28: Eyelids open, brain develops rapidly, sleep–wake cycles. ● Week 29–32: Nails present, subcutaneous fat increases. ● Week 33–40: Lanugo disappears, lungs mature, weight gain accelerates.
The skeletal and muscular systems provide movement and strength for fetal growth. ● Week 5: Limb buds visible.
● Week 10–12: Cartilage replaced by bone (ossification begins). ● Week 16–20: Quickening (first felt movement by mother). ● Week 28+: Fat deposits increase, muscle tone improves.
The cardiovascular system is one of the first to function. ● Day 22–23: Heart tube begins beating. ● Week 6–7: Cardiac activity visible on ultrasound. ● Week 12: Fetal heartbeat audible with Doppler. ● Term HR: 1 10–160 bpm.
The lungs are immature until late pregnancy, but preparation begins early. ● Week 4–5: Trachea and lung buds form. ● Week 9: Fetal breathing movements begin. ● Week 24: Surfactant production begins. ● Week 35–36: Surfactant at mature levels for gas exchange.
The GI system develops early, with the liver, intestines, and meconium formation. ● Week 6: Liver forms and produces RBCs. ● Week 6–10: Intestines herniate into cord, return by week 10.
● Allows for fetal movement and growth. ● Prevents cord compression. ● Normal volume: 700–1000 mL at term.
Temporary organ essential for fetal survival. ● Fully functional by week 12. ● Functions: Gas exchange, nutrients, waste removal. ● Produces hormones: hCG, progesterone, estrogen, hPL, relaxin. ● Maternal and fetal blood never mix directly.
Lifeline between fetus and placenta. ● 1 vein (oxygenated blood to fetus). ● 2 arteries (deoxygenated blood to placenta). ● Protected by Wharton’s jelly. ● Average length: 50–60 cm.
Fetal movement reflects health and neurological development. ● Quickening = 16–20 weeks. ● Consistent movement = well-being.
● Decreased/absent movement after quickening = possible hypoxia → prompt evaluation. ●
Kick counts are a method to monitor fetal well-being in the third trimester. A healthy fetus should have regular, consistent movement; decreased movement can indicate hypoxia, growth restriction, or compromise. Guidelines ● Begin monitoring at ~28 weeks. ● Count in a quiet setting, lying on the side after meals. ● 2 methods commonly used: ○ Count until 10 movements are felt (should be within 2 hours). ○ Or: At least 3 movements per hour during active times. Patient Education ● Best done after eating or in the evening when the fetus is more active. ● Lie down, place your hand on the abdomen, focus on movements. ● Report immediately if: ○ <10 movements in 2 hours. ○ Noticeable decrease in movement compared to usual. ○ No movement after meals or stimulation
Abortion is the termination of pregnancy before viability (20 weeks). It may be spontaneous (miscarriage) or induced. Most spontaneous abortions are related to chromosomal abnormalities or maternal health issues.
● Provide emotional support and grief resources. ● Prepare for possible D&C or medications (misoprostol) to expel tissue. ● Administer Rhogam if mother is Rh-negative. ● Educate on rest, pelvic rest (no sex, no tampons), and when to seek care. Treatment ● Threatened: Bed rest, monitor, emotional support. ● Incomplete/Missed: D&C, misoprostol, IV fluids, antibiotics if infection. ● Complete: Supportive care, monitor for further bleeding.
Defined as pregnancy loss before 20 weeks, most often caused by chromosomal abnormalities. Can be classified into several types based on clinical presentation. Types of Abortion ● Threatened: Vaginal bleeding, cramping, cervix closed, fetus still viable. ● Inevitable: Bleeding increases, cervix dilates, membranes may rupture. ● Incomplete: Some products of conception expelled, tissue remains inside the uterus. ● Complete: All products expelled, uterus contracts, bleeding stops. ● Missed: Fetus dies in utero but is not expelled, may cause infection or DIC. ● Recurrent (habitual): ≥3 consecutive spontaneous abortions. Assessment/Labs
● Ultrasound: Confirms presence/absence of fetal heartbeat and retained tissue. ● hCG levels: Normally rise; falling levels indicate pregnancy loss. ● CBC: Check for anemia or blood loss. ● Blood type & Rh: Administer Rhogam if Rh-negative. Nursing Interventions ● Monitor bleeding, vital signs, and pain. ● Emotional support and referral to grief resources. ● Prepare for procedures: D&C (dilation & curettage) or meds (e.g., misoprostol). ● Bed rest, pelvic rest (no intercourse, no tampons). ● Education on when to seek care (heavy bleeding, fever, severe pain). Treatment ● Threatened: Observation, bed rest, hydration. ● Inevitable/Incomplete/Missed: D&C, suction curettage, or medication. ● Complete: No further intervention except follow-up.
Implantation of a fertilized ovum outside the uterine cavity, most commonly in the fallopian tube. A medical emergency if ruptured. Risk Factors ● PID or history of STIs. ● Endometriosis, tubal surgery.
● Complete Mole: No fetus, empty egg fertilized by sperm. hCG is extremely high. ● Partial Mole: Some fetal tissue present, abnormal chromosomes. Signs/Symptoms ● Brown, prune juice–like vaginal bleeding. ● Fundal height larger than dates. ● Severe nausea/vomiting (excess hCG). ● Preeclampsia before 24 weeks. ● No fetal heartbeat/movement. Diagnostics ● Ultrasound: “Snowstorm” appearance, no viable fetus. ● Very high hCG levels. Treatment/Nursing Care ● Evacuation of uterus via suction curettage/D&C. ● No pregnancy for 1 year → monitor hCG levels weekly until normal, then monthly. ● Rhogam if Rh-negative. ● Emotional support, grief counseling.
Placenta implants in the lower uterus, covering part or all of the cervical os. Types
● Complete: Placenta covers the cervix entirely. ● Partial: Placenta partially covers the cervix. ● Marginal: Edge of placenta at cervical os. Signs/Symptoms ● Painless, bright red vaginal bleeding in the 2nd or 3rd trimester. ● Soft, relaxed uterus. ● Normal fetal heart rate unless bleeding is severe. Diagnostics ● Ultrasound confirms diagnosis. ● No vaginal exams (risk of hemorrhage). Nursing Interventions/Treatment ● Monitor bleeding and fetal status. ● Bed rest, pelvic rest. ● IV fluids, blood products if hemorrhage. ● C-section delivery if complete previa
Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall. A medical emergency with high risk for maternal/fetal mortality. Risk Factors ● Hypertension, preeclampsia.
● Labs: CBC (anemia, infection), hCG (pregnancy status), Blood type & Rh (administer Rhogam if Rh-negative). ● Ultrasound: confirm viability or retained tissue. Nursing Interventions ● Stabilize first: manage bleeding, give IV fluids, prep for D&C or medications (misoprostol) if needed. ● Provide pain management and monitor for complications (infection, DIC). ● Offer emotional support: listen actively, validate grief, and respect cultural/religious rituals. ● Encourage the use of memory items (footprints, photos, memory boxes) if parents desire. ● Offer spiritual care: chaplain visit, baptism/special rituals if requested. ● Screen for postpartum depression and connect with counseling or support groups. Treatment ● Threatened loss: observe, pelvic rest, emotional reassurance. ● Incomplete/Missed: D&C, suction, or medications. ● Complete: Monitor recovery, follow-up care. ● Rhogam for Rh-negative mothers. Patient Education ● Explain what happened clearly and compassionately. ● Instruct on warning signs: heavy bleeding, fever, severe abdominal pain.
● Discuss when it is safe to attempt another pregnancy (varies, but often 3– months after loss). Chapter 7: Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Anatomy and Physiology Changes in Pregnancy: Female Reproductive System Changes in Pregnancy ● Conception triggers rapid adaptations; amenorrhea is an early manifestation. ● Uterine hypertrophy and hyperplasia support fetal growth; estrogen contributes to spiral artery remodeling for deep placentation. ● Breasts: estrogen and progesterone drive ductal and lobuloalveolar growth; colostrum production may begin; tenderness and leaking can occur. Cardiovascular & Hematologic Adaptation ● Blood volume increases 30–50% by mid–third trimester leads to increase cardiac output and stroke volume and heart rate. ● Systemic vascular resistance decreases (estrogen effect) leads to slight BP decrease mid‑pregnancy; returns to baseline late pregnancy. ● Physiologic anemia of pregnancy (hemodilution); most clotting factors increase which leads to higher VTE risk. ● Venous stasis from gravid uterus results in lower‑extremity varicosities; usually painless and improve postpartum. Respiratory Adaptations ● Maternal/fetal oxygen demand increases results in mild increase in respiratory rate. ● Diaphragm elevation reduces lung volumes; hyperventilation can occur; ‘lightening’ near term eases breathing. Gastrointestinal Adaptations ● Uterine enlargement displaces stomach and intestines results in early satiety and reflux risk. ● Progesterone slows GI motility and lowers LES tone and leads to heartburn, nausea and vomiting, constipation. Genitourinary Adaptations ● Kidney size increase 30%; GFR increase 50% resulting in physiologic glycosuria and proteinuria (significant elevations need evaluation).
● T = Term, the number of births at 37 weeks or after ● P = Preterm births, the number of births born before 37 weeks ● A = Abortion, the number of medical, procedural and or spontaneous abortions, miscarriages ● L = Living, the number of living children Substance Use Counseling & Screening ● Tobacco use causes fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, miscarriage. ● Alcohol/illicit drugs cause teratogenic risks. Use therapeutic, nonjudgmental screening to guide education/referrals. STI Risk Assessment: The Five Ps ● Partners, Practices, Protection, Past STIs, Pregnancy intention. ● Partner Violence (IPV) Screening ● Screen privately with direct, nonjudgmental questions; assess safety; refer as needed. Physical Examination & Fetal Heart Rate ● Vitals, BMI; consider breast and pelvic exam. FHR expected: 1 10–160 bpm; if not heard by 12 weeks via Doppler/fetoscope, get ultrasound. Prenatal Panel (First Trimester) ● CBC; Blood type; Rh factor; Rubella immunity; HBsAg; HIV; Syphilis (RPR); Urinalysis and urine culture. ● If anemia take iron plus vitamin C. If HBsAg+, infant gets Hep B vaccine + HBIG within 12 hr of life. Rh Factor, Sensitization, and Rho(D) Immune Globulin ● Rh-negative clients: prophylactic Rhogam at 28 weeks and within 72 hr after birth if newborn is Rh+. Also, after bleeding, trauma, or invasive procedures. ● Adverse effects: local site reactions, low-grade fever; rare anaphylaxis/hemolysis. Delay live vaccines ~12 weeks after immune globulin; administer MMR postpartum if nonimmune. Diagnostics: Ultrasound & CVS ● Ultrasound: viability, dating, anomalies, multiples. Transvaginal early (no full bladder), transabdominal later (full bladder). ● CVS (10–13 weeks): sampling placental tissue for genetics; contraindicated with active vaginal infection (e.g., gonorrhea, herpes). Weight Gain & Nutrition
Weight Gain in Pregnancy ● BMI Expected Weight Gain ● Less than 18.5 kg/m2 - 28 to 40 lb ● 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 - 25 to 35 lb ● 25 to 29.9 kg/m2 - 15 to 25 lb ● Greater than 30 kg/m2 - 11 to 20 lb ● Prenatal vitamin daily: folic acid, iron, iodine, calcium, vitamins A; C; D; B6; and B12. Emphasize balanced diet and omega-3 sources. ● Avoid high-mercury fish; limit white tuna; avoid raw/undercooked foods, unpasteurized products, unheated deli meats, premade meat salads, meat spreads, raw sprouts. Sorting Practice: Safe vs Unsafe Foods ● Safe: pasteurized dairy, fully cooked meats/seafood, heated deli meats, cooked eggs, washed produce, low-mercury fish. ● Unsafe: bigeye tuna/king mackerel/shark/swordfish/tilefish/orange roughy; raw sushi/oysters; unpasteurized milk/juice; unpasteurized soft cheeses; raw sprouts; raw cookie dough. Managing Nausea/Vomiting and Heartburn ● N/V: small frequent meals; BRATT; ginger; hydration; seek care for dehydration/hyperemesis. Heartburn: small meals; avoid spicy/greasy; elevate HOB; avoid lying flat after meals; antacids per provider. Sorting Practice: Eat vs Avoid (N/V & Heartburn) ● Eat: crackers, bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, ginger tea/capsules, small frequent meals. ● Avoid: large meals; spicy/greasy foods; eating late; lying supine after meals. Mental Health, Exercise, Sleep ● Screen for anxiety/depression; consider counseling and nonpharmacologic supports; SSRIs per provider after risk–benefit discussion. ● Exercise: mild–moderate 3x/week for uncomplicated pregnancies (walking, swimming). ● Sleep: early—any comfortable position; later—avoid supine (supine hypotension). Prefer left lateral with pillows. Pets & Toxoplasmosis ● Avoid changing litter; if unavoidable, use gloves and wash hands. Wear gloves gardening; wash produce; keep cats indoors; avoid raw meat for cats; cover sandboxes; avoid strays. Travel & Vaccinations (First Trimester)