Pregnancy is a transformative journey, commencing when a fertilized egg (ovum) implants and develops into a fetus within a woman’s uterus. Typically spanning approximately 40 weeks, calculated from the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period, pregnancy involves remarkable physiological adaptations to nurture new life.
In this article, we will explore the stages of pregnancy, the crucial role of nursing care, and delve into specific Maternity Nursing Diagnosis Care Plans.
Stages of Pregnancy
Pregnancy is conventionally divided into three distinct trimesters, each marked by unique developmental milestones:
- First Trimester: Weeks 1 through 12
- Second Trimester: Weeks 13 through 26
- Third Trimester: Weeks 27 until birth
Fetal development can also be categorized into three stages:
- Pre-embryonic Stage: The first two weeks, beginning with fertilization.
- Embryonic Stage: Weeks 3 through 8, a period of rapid organogenesis.
- Fetal Stage: From week 9 until birth, characterized by growth and maturation.
During the embryonic stage, the placenta and fetal membranes develop, assuming vital roles as the fetus’s support system within the uterus. They provide protection, oxygen, and essential nutrients throughout gestation.
Pregnancy induces significant physiological and psychological changes in a woman’s body. To accommodate the growing fetus, blood volume, cardiac output, and heart rate increase. As oxygen demand rises, respiratory rate may elevate, and some women may experience episodes of shortness of breath. Hormonal shifts are pronounced, with significant increases in estrogen and progesterone levels. The uterus expands considerably, causing displacement of abdominal organs. Breast tenderness and enlargement are common, and pelvic ligaments loosen in preparation for labor and delivery.
Pregnancy symptoms are highly individual, varying considerably between women and even between pregnancies in the same woman.
These signs and symptoms are categorized into three classifications:
- Presumptive Signs: Subjective symptoms reported by the woman.
- Probable Signs: Objective signs observed during examination.
- Positive Signs: Definitive signs confirming pregnancy.
While presumptive and probable signs are helpful indicators, they require verification. Positive signs definitively confirm the pregnancy.
Positive confirmations of pregnancy include:
- Detection of a fetal heartbeat, distinct from the maternal heart rate.
- Palpation of fetal movements by a healthcare provider.
- Visualization of the developing fetus via ultrasound imaging.
Nursing Process in Maternity Care
Providing comprehensive care for both the expectant mother and her developing fetus is paramount for a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Nurses play a vital role in monitoring physiological and psychological adaptations, identifying potential risks, and ensuring positive maternal and fetal outcomes. This is achieved through detailed maternal history assessment and routine prenatal evaluations.
Prenatal education is an indispensable component of maternity care. Pregnancy represents a significant life transition, necessitating adjustments in diet, activity levels, and lifestyle choices. Informed mothers are more likely to actively participate in their care plan and adopt health-promoting behaviors.
Nurses serve as a crucial source of support for the mother, infant, and involved support persons throughout the pregnancy journey. From the initial prenatal visit through labor and delivery and the postpartum period, nurses vigilantly monitor for complications, provide essential resources, offer empathetic support, and advocate for the health and safety of their patients.
Maternity Nursing Diagnosis Care Plans
Once a nurse identifies pertinent nursing diagnoses in pregnancy care, meticulously developed nursing care plans become essential tools. These plans prioritize assessments and interventions to achieve both short-term and long-term care objectives. The following sections provide examples of maternity nursing diagnosis care plans frequently utilized in prenatal and intrapartum care.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common experience during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Hormonal fluctuations and the profound life changes associated with pregnancy can contribute to feelings of uncertainty and worry.
Nursing Diagnosis: Anxiety
Related Factors:
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Stressors related to pregnancy and impending parenthood
- Pain or discomfort
- Unmet needs or expectations
- Value or belief conflicts
- Unfamiliarity with the pregnancy experience and healthcare system
- Inadequate support system
- Financial concerns related to pregnancy and childcare
As evidenced by:
- Reports of feeling anxious, worried, or overwhelmed
- Expressing anxiety about pregnancy, childbirth, or parenting
- Crying spells
- Expressing distress or fear
- Feelings of insecurity or vulnerability
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Feelings of helplessness or lack of control
- Poor impulse control
- Decreased attention span and difficulty concentrating
Expected Outcomes:
- The patient will verbalize a sense of peace and increased control regarding her pregnancy within a specified timeframe.
- The patient will identify and demonstrate at least two techniques to effectively manage her anxiety symptoms.
Assessments:
1. Evaluate the patient’s anxiety level and physiological and psychological responses to anxiety.
Anxiety can manifest through physiological responses such as tachycardia, tachypnea, and behavioral expressions like irritability, mood swings, fear, tension, and impaired concentration. Assessing the specific aspects of pregnancy causing the patient’s concern is crucial for targeted interventions.
2. Determine the patient’s knowledge base and preparedness for labor and childbirth.
Anxiety levels related to childbirth fear can be significantly elevated in pregnant women, especially when compounded by limited education and inadequate support systems. Assessing their understanding and expectations is vital.
3. Assess the patient’s available support system, including social and partner support.
Robust emotional support from partners, family, and social networks is crucial in mitigating anxiety and childbirth-related fears. Patients with weak support systems are often more vulnerable to heightened anxiety levels.
Interventions:
1. Encourage the patient to openly express her fears and feelings about pregnancy and childbirth in a safe and supportive environment.
Verbalizing anxieties and fears related to pregnancy and childbirth fosters a therapeutic environment, communicates caring and empathy, and demonstrably reduces feelings of anxiety in pregnant patients.
2. Provide accurate and developmentally appropriate information about pregnancy, fetal development, and the labor and childbirth process.
Empower the patient by addressing knowledge deficits and correcting misconceptions. Offer tailored education on topics causing apprehension or uncertainty.
3. Explain all planned procedures, tests, and examinations thoroughly and obtain informed consent.
Many prenatal tests and procedures can be invasive and require a foundation of trust and informed consent. Providing clear explanations before implementation empowers the patient and promotes a sense of control.
4. Teach and encourage the consistent use of deep breathing and relaxation techniques.
Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques are effective non-pharmacological methods to reduce anxiety symptoms and potentially prevent pregnancy complications such as pre-labor contractions.
5. Refer the patient to relevant support groups, counseling services, or mental health professionals as needed.
For patients lacking adequate support systems or experiencing significant anxiety, providing information and referrals to pregnancy support groups, parenting classes, or mental health services can offer valuable resources and coping strategies.
Alt text: A nurse guides a pregnant woman in deep breathing exercises, a relaxation technique for managing anxiety during pregnancy, promoting calm and well-being.
Deficient Knowledge
Deficient knowledge related to pregnancy commonly arises from inadequate understanding of normal physiological changes and essential self-care practices during gestation. First-time mothers are particularly susceptible to misinterpretations or knowledge gaps regarding pregnancy.
Nursing Diagnosis: Deficient Knowledge
Related Factors:
- Inadequate information or exposure to pregnancy-related education
- Misinterpretation of normal body changes during pregnancy
- Insufficient understanding of self-care needs during pregnancy
- Lack of awareness regarding prenatal care recommendations
- Unpreparedness for the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy and the postpartum period
As evidenced by:
- Verbalization of concerns or questions about pregnancy and related self-care
- Frequent inquiries about expected pregnancy experiences
- Expressing misconceptions or inaccurate information about pregnancy
- Demonstrating inaccurate or insufficient self-care practices
- Development of preventable pregnancy complications
- Nonadherence to recommended prenatal care or treatment regimens
Expected Outcomes:
- The patient will accurately verbalize her understanding of expected physiological changes during pregnancy before discharge from educational session.
- The patient will identify at least three recommended behavior and lifestyle modifications appropriate for her pregnancy stage and health status.
Assessments:
1. Determine the patient’s current knowledge level regarding pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care.
To personalize health education effectively, nurses must first assess the patient’s baseline knowledge and identify any existing information gaps or misunderstandings. This assessment guides the tailoring of appropriate and targeted teaching interventions.
2. Evaluate the patient’s learning capacity, readiness to learn, and any potential learning barriers.
Successful patient education requires assessing the patient’s cognitive abilities, emotional readiness, and any factors that might impede learning, such as language barriers, learning disabilities, or health literacy limitations. Ensuring the patient is mentally and emotionally receptive to information is crucial.
3. Explore any misconceptions, cultural beliefs, or traditional practices related to pregnancy and childbirth that the patient may hold.
Cultural beliefs and traditional practices can significantly influence a patient’s understanding and approach to pregnancy and healthcare. Nurses must be sensitive to and identify these cultural norms and beliefs to effectively differentiate between factual information and cultural myths. Maintaining a nonjudgmental approach while prioritizing the provision of accurate, evidence-based information is essential.
Interventions:
1. Collaboratively develop a birth plan with the patient, incorporating her preferences and goals while ensuring safety and feasibility.
Each pregnancy and birth experience is unique, and every mother has individual preferences and goals for delivery. While birth plans should remain flexible and adaptable, assisting the mother in defining her expectations can alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of preparedness and control.
2. Provide pregnancy-related information and education tailored to the patient’s individual educational level, learning style, and language.
Effective patient education necessitates adapting teaching methods and materials to match the patient’s learning needs. For example, teenage mothers or patients with lower literacy levels may benefit from simplified language, visual aids like videos, or interactive learning tools. Supplementing verbal instructions with written materials like pamphlets or brochures enhances comprehension and retention.
3. Encourage the patient to ask questions freely and address all inquiries with patience and clarity.
Patients should feel comfortable and empowered to ask questions without hesitation. Cultivating a warm, patient, and approachable demeanor encourages open communication and ensures that patients feel their questions are valued and will be answered thoroughly.
4. Provide positive reinforcement and acknowledge the patient’s efforts in adhering to prenatal care recommendations and adopting healthy behaviors.
Consistent adherence to prenatal appointments and recommended self-care practices requires time and commitment. Offering positive feedback and acknowledging the patient’s progress in meeting health goals or preventing complications reinforces positive behaviors and promotes continued engagement in care.
Alt text: A nurse educates a pregnant woman about prenatal care using visual aids, promoting understanding and informed decision-making for a healthy pregnancy.
Ineffective Sexuality Pattern
The profound physiological and hormonal changes of pregnancy can significantly impact a woman’s sexuality and sexual function. Physical changes may lead to feelings of self-consciousness or decreased attractiveness, while common pregnancy symptoms can diminish libido and sexual desire.
Nursing Diagnosis: Ineffective Sexuality Pattern
Related Factors:
- Physical symptoms of pregnancy such as fatigue, breast tenderness, and body image changes
- Nausea and vomiting, particularly in early pregnancy
- Insufficient knowledge or misconceptions about sexual activity during pregnancy
- Weight gain and altered body image
- Hormonal fluctuations and their effects on libido
- Role changes and shifts in relationship dynamics
- Relationship conflicts or communication barriers with partner
As evidenced by:
- Reported alterations in sexual behavior, such as decreased frequency or avoidance of sexual activity
- Changes in perceived sexual attractiveness or desire
- Reports of difficulty with sexual arousal or achieving orgasm
- Verbalization of concerns or dissatisfaction with current sexual patterns
Expected Outcomes:
- The patient will express an understanding of potential difficulties, limitations, and changes in sexual behaviors that may occur during pregnancy by the end of the consultation.
- The patient will verbalize acceptance of changes in her sexuality pattern and describe at least two acceptable alternative sexual practices or expressions of intimacy.
Assessments:
1. Assess the nature and extent of alterations in the patient’s sexuality patterns and sexual function.
Physiological adaptations during pregnancy can influence a woman’s hormones, sexual desire, physiological sexual responses, and sexual practices. A comprehensive assessment of these changes is essential for developing an appropriate care approach and identifying specific patient education needs.
2. Identify any pregnancy complications or contraindications that may affect the patient’s sexual activity.
Certain pregnancy complications, such as placenta previa, vaginal bleeding, or preterm contractions, may contraindicate specific forms of sexual activity. Assessing for these conditions is critical to ensure patient safety.
Interventions:
1. Provide sexual counseling and education to both the patient and her partner, addressing common concerns and misconceptions about sex during pregnancy.
Openly discussing sexual issues with both the patient and her partner facilitates mutual understanding of any present limitations or concerns and guides the couple in developing strategies to address sexual health needs and maintain intimacy.
2. Encourage open and honest communication between the patient and her partner regarding sexual needs, concerns, and preferences.
Communication barriers and unresolved sexual concerns within a couple can lead to increased stress, relationship strain, and further sexual dysfunction. Promoting open and honest dialogue between partners is crucial for maintaining sexual intimacy and overall relationship health.
3. Discuss and suggest alternative forms of sexual expression and intimacy for patients when sexual intercourse is contraindicated or uncomfortable.
When sexual intercourse is not advisable or desired, exploring alternative expressions of intimacy can help address altered sexuality patterns. Sexual satisfaction and closeness can be achieved through various means, including cuddling, massage, sensual touching, or kissing.
4. Provide accurate, evidence-based information about the safety of sexual activity throughout pregnancy, dispelling myths and reassuring patients.
Unless specific contraindications exist, reassure the patient that sexual intercourse is generally safe during all trimesters of pregnancy and will not harm the baby. Providing this accurate information can alleviate anxiety and promote sexual well-being.
5. Refer the patient to appropriate community support programs, certified sex counselors, or therapists as needed.
Community support groups and qualified professionals, such as certified sex counselors or therapists, can offer valuable support, empathy, and specialized coping strategies for couples navigating sexual challenges during pregnancy.
Alt text: A couple engages in intimate conversation, symbolizing open communication about sexuality during pregnancy, fostering understanding and connection.
Risk for Disturbed Maternal-Fetal Dyad
The risk for disturbed maternal-fetal dyad, indicating potential disruption in the mother-fetus relationship, can arise from a multitude of intrinsic and extrinsic factors that contribute to pregnancy-related complications. These pregnancies are often categorized as “high-risk,” carrying the potential for disruptions in the biological interdependence between mother and baby, and in severe cases, maternal or fetal morbidity or mortality.
Nursing Diagnosis: Risk for Disturbed Maternal-Fetal Dyad
Related Factors:
- Inadequate or delayed prenatal care initiation
- History or current incidence of abuse (physical, psychological, or sexual)
- Substance abuse or dependence (alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs)
- Pre-existing or gestational impaired glucose metabolism (diabetes)
- Inadequate maternal nutrition or nutritional deficiencies
- Use of certain medications or teratogenic substances
- Advanced maternal age
- Pre-existing maternal comorbidities (e.g., hypertension, cardiac disease)
- Maternal depression or other mental health conditions
- Compromised fetal oxygen supply or placental insufficiency
- Placental abnormalities (e.g., abruptio placenta, placenta previa)
As evidenced by:
A risk nursing diagnosis is not characterized by existing signs and symptoms, as the problem has not yet occurred. Nursing interventions are proactively focused on prevention.
Expected Outcomes:
- The patient will verbalize an understanding of at least three conditions or factors that can potentially disturb the maternal-fetal dyad by the end of the educational session.
- The patient will accurately identify her individual risk factors for a disturbed maternal-fetal dyad based on her health history and lifestyle.
- The patient will actively practice at least three recommended preventive measures aimed at minimizing the risk of a disturbed maternal-fetal dyad throughout her pregnancy.
Assessments:
1. Thoroughly review the patient’s obstetric history, including details of current and previous pregnancies.
A comprehensive obstetric history is a critical component of risk assessment. Reviewing past pregnancy experiences, including complications or outcomes, provides valuable insights into the patient’s potential health risks and the likelihood of maternal and fetal complications in the current pregnancy.
2. Assess the patient’s history of prenatal care engagement, including the timing of initiation and consistency of attendance.
Early and consistent prenatal care is a cornerstone of a healthy pregnancy. Lack of or delayed prenatal care significantly increases risks for both the mother and fetus. Therefore, evaluating adherence to recommended prenatal visit schedules is crucial.
3. Review the patient’s comprehensive health history and identify any pre-existing or pregnancy-related risk factors that may compromise maternal or fetal well-being.
Maternal comorbidities can directly impact uteroplacental blood flow and efficient gas exchange, essential for fetal health. Conditions and factors that can induce vascular changes, diminish placental blood flow, or impair oxygen transport include:
- Pre-existing Diabetes Mellitus or Gestational Diabetes
- Gestational Hypertension or pre-existing Hypertension
- Pre-existing Cardiac Conditions
- Active Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Substance or medication use and abuse
- Pre-existing Respiratory Conditions such as Asthma or COPD
- Vascular conditions including Anemia, Rh incompatibility, and hemorrhage
- Placental abnormalities such as abruptio placenta and placenta previa
4. Assess the patient’s respiratory status and identify any pre-existing respiratory conditions that may compromise oxygenation.
The mother’s respiratory status directly affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of her blood, which is vital for fetal oxygen supply. Maternal respiratory compromise can contribute to fetal hypoxia and potentially lead to congenital cardiovascular abnormalities.
5. Screen for signs and symptoms of domestic abuse or intimate partner violence.
Nurses should be vigilant in assessing for signs of domestic abuse in pregnant patients. Abuse during pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes such as low maternal and fetal weight, preterm birth, and other complications.
6. Evaluate the patient’s understanding of conditions and behaviors that can potentially disturb the maternal-fetal dyad.
Well-informed pregnant patients are better equipped to actively participate in preventive measures and effectively manage modifiable risk factors that could compromise the maternal-fetal dyad.
7. Continuously monitor fetal activity and fetal heart rate (FHR) throughout pregnancy.
Routine fetal monitoring is essential to assess fetal well-being. This includes evaluating fetal heart rate patterns, fetal movement patterns, fetal growth trajectory, amniotic fluid volume, and placental health, often utilizing routine ultrasound examinations.
Interventions:
1. Monitor the patient’s weight routinely at prenatal visits and compare it to pre-pregnancy weight and recommended gestational weight gain guidelines.
Maternal weight is a valuable indicator of overall pregnancy health and nutritional status. Deviations from recommended weight gain patterns can signal potential pregnancy-related problems. Both underweight and obese patients are at increased risk for developing gestational conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
2. Offer comprehensive resources, counseling, and support for patients struggling with substance abuse or addiction.
Cessation of smoking, alcohol, and illicit drug use is critical for both maternal and fetal health. Provide readily accessible information about support groups, addiction treatment programs, and resources to assist patients in controlling addiction and substance use.
3. Actively involve support persons, such as family members, partners, or friends, in prenatal education and care planning.
Managing a healthy pregnancy through optimal nutrition, stress management, symptom control, and adherence to medical recommendations often requires a strong support network. Include family members, partners, and supportive friends in education sessions and empower them to actively participate in supporting the pregnant patient’s well-being.
4. Proactively address any psychological or mental health needs that arise during pregnancy, providing timely interventions and referrals.
Pre-existing depression and other mental health conditions can be exacerbated during pregnancy. Routinely assess for signs of increased stress, mood changes, anxiety, or depressive symptoms and promptly alert the healthcare provider to facilitate appropriate mental health support and interventions.
Alt text: A nurse provides prenatal care instructions to a pregnant woman and her partner, emphasizing the importance of partner involvement and support in a healthy pregnancy.
Risk for Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements
The risk for imbalanced nutrition, specifically inadequate nutritional intake to meet metabolic demands during pregnancy, is a significant concern. This risk can be attributed to factors such as poor dietary habits and deficiencies in essential nutrients. If not addressed proactively, nutritional imbalances during pregnancy can lead to adverse maternal outcomes, including anemia, preeclampsia, hemorrhage, and even mortality, as well as negative fetal outcomes such as low birth weight and developmental problems.
Nursing Diagnosis: Risk for Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements
Related Factors:
- Changes in the sense of taste (dysgeusia) or smell, affecting appetite and food preferences
- Pre-existing dental problems or oral discomfort impacting food intake
- Decreased appetite or anorexia related to pregnancy symptoms
- Inadequate dietary intake of essential nutrients
- Nausea and vomiting, especially during early pregnancy
- Difficulty meeting increased metabolic demands of pregnancy and fetal growth
- Elevated thyroid activity associated with fetal development
- Certain medications that may affect appetite or nutrient absorption
- Insufficient financial resources to access nutritious food
- Lack of knowledge regarding optimal nutrition during pregnancy
As evidenced by:
A risk nursing diagnosis is not characterized by existing signs and symptoms, as the problem has not yet occurred. Nursing interventions are preemptively focused on prevention.
Expected Outcomes:
- The patient will demonstrate weight gain within the expected gestational weight gain ranges throughout her pregnancy.
- The patient will accurately verbalize her understanding of proper nutrition and dietary recommendations during pregnancy by the end of the nutritional counseling session.
- The patient will collaboratively develop and demonstrate adherence to a personalized meal plan based on recommended nutrition guidelines for pregnancy.
Assessments:
1. Identify and evaluate the patient’s individual risk factors for developing imbalanced nutrition during pregnancy.
A comprehensive nutritional risk assessment is essential to identify pregnant women who are at higher risk for experiencing poor health outcomes related to inadequate nutrition. Risk factors may include low socioeconomic status, limited health literacy, pre-existing medical conditions, or specific dietary restrictions. This risk stratification enables healthcare professionals to provide tailored and risk-appropriate prenatal nutritional care.
2. Assess the patient’s typical daily nutritional intake patterns and dietary habits through detailed dietary history and assessment tools.
Suboptimal dietary patterns and inadequate nutrient intake have been strongly linked to negative pregnancy outcomes. Promoting healthy eating habits and ensuring adequate nutrient intake during pregnancy are crucial for optimal fetal growth and development and reducing the risk of pregnancy complications.
3. Monitor the patient’s weight at each prenatal visit and track gestational weight gain patterns against recommended guidelines.
Appropriate gestational weight gain is a significant indicator of a healthy pregnancy and adequate fetal growth. Recommended nutrient intake during pregnancy directly supports fetal development and maternal well-being. The recommended total weight gain during pregnancy typically ranges from 25 to 35 pounds for women with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI.
4. Assess for any clinical signs and symptoms suggestive of malnutrition or nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy.
Maternal dietary intake and nutritional status directly impact fetal growth and development. Maternal malnutrition is associated with increased risks of stillbirth, low birth weight infants, and babies small for gestational age.
Clinical signs and symptoms of malnutrition in pregnancy may include:
- Persistent Fatigue and low energy levels
- Laboratory evidence of Anemia (low hemoglobin or hematocrit)
- Inadequate or minimal pregnancy weight gain
- Frequent episodes of Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Elevated Blood Pressure (potential sign of preeclampsia related to malnutrition)
- Excessive Hair Loss or thinning
- Dry Skin and mucous membranes
- Dental Problems, such as increased caries or gum disease
- Compromised Immune Function, indicated by increased susceptibility to infections
5. Evaluate the patient’s activity level and physical exertion, as activity levels influence caloric and nutritional needs.
The patient’s daily activity level and exercise habits impact her overall caloric and nutrient requirements. Consider the balance between caloric intake and energy expenditure when developing individualized dietary plans.
Interventions:
1. Collaboratively establish realistic and achievable nutritional goals with the patient, considering her individual preferences, lifestyle, and cultural background.
Involving the patient in setting nutritional goals enhances adherence to the care plan. Patient participation in creating a personalized nutritional plan that aligns with her lifestyle, preferences, and cultural norms increases the likelihood of successful dietary modifications.
2. Facilitate consultation and collaboration with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for comprehensive nutritional assessment and individualized dietary plan development.
A registered dietitian or nutritionist possesses specialized expertise in pregnancy nutrition and can provide comprehensive assessment of nutritional needs and develop individualized dietary plans tailored to the pregnant patient’s specific requirements, considering any pre-existing dietary restrictions or medical conditions.
3. Administer prescribed dietary supplements as recommended by the healthcare provider, ensuring appropriate dosage and patient understanding of supplement purpose.
Prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementation is a readily accessible and effective strategy to prevent fetal neural tube defects and address common nutrient deficiencies during pregnancy. Essential supplements that may be recommended during pregnancy include:
- Folic acid
- Iron
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Choline
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- B vitamins (especially B12 and B6)
- Vitamin C
4. Provide education and practical strategies to manage common pregnancy discomforts that can hinder adequate nutritional intake, such as morning sickness.
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (morning sickness) are prevalent, particularly in the first trimester, and can significantly impede adequate food intake, potentially leading to dehydration and nutritional deficits. Provide evidence-based strategies to manage morning sickness, such as consuming ginger, avoiding trigger odors or foods, eating smaller, more frequent meals, and ensuring adequate fluid intake.
Alt text: A nurse counsels a pregnant woman on healthy food choices, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition for maternal and fetal well-being during pregnancy.
References
- Doenges, M. E., Moorhouse, M. F., & Murr, A. C. (2019). Nurse’s pocket guide: Diagnoses, interventions, and rationales (15th ed.). F A Davis Company.
- Pillitteri, A., & Silbert-Flagg, J. (2015). Nursing Care Related to Psychological and Physiologic Changes of Pregnancy. In Maternal & child health nursing: Care of the childbearing & Childrearing family (8th ed., pp. 469-472). LWW.
- Silvestri, L. A., & CNE, A. E. (2019). Prenatal Period. In Saunders comprehensive review for the NCLEX-RN examination (8th ed., pp. 637-664). Saunders.
