Module A_Student Notes
: 38-42 weeks
LMP: Last Menstrual Period
LNMP: Last Normal Menstrual Period
Implantation:
Important site: where the embryo develops
Normal implantation occurs in upper uterus
May confuse implantation bleeding with menstrual period
Complete by end of second week post-fertilization
Fetal Development:
Embryonic Period: Environmental agents (teratogens) can cause defects
Fetal Period: Divided into weeks 9-38, several developmental milestones.
Page 2: Auxiliary Structures
Placenta:
Thick organ: Maternal and Fetal components
Functions: Provides nutrients, removes wastes, secretes hormones
Fetal Membrane and Amniotic Fluid:
Inner membrane: Amnion, Outer membrane: Chorion
Functions of amniotic fluid: cushions fetus, maintains temperature, promotes development
Fetal Circulation:
Umbilical cord: 2 arteries (deoxygenated blood), 1 vein (oxygenated blood)
Key structures: Ductus venosus, Ductus arteriosus, Foramen ovale
Page 3: Genetic Influences
Genetic Review:
Disease inheritance depends on chromosome type (autosomal or sex)
Dominant inheritance: Abnormal gene from one parent can cause disease
Recessive inheritance: Both genes must be defective
Genetic Counseling: Educates about risks and options without directives
Maternal Conditions: Influential factors such as alcoholism, diabetes, smoking, and nutrition
Folic acid: vital before conception
Infectious Agents: e.g., rubella, toxoplasmosis affecting fetal development
Nursing Care: Educate on lifestyle modifications for optimal outcomes.
Page 4: Gravida and Para Classification
Gravida Types: Nulligravida (never been pregnant), Primigravida (first pregnancy), Multigravida (multiple pregnancies)
Para Classifications: Nullipara, Primipara, Multipara
Viability and Term: Definitions of birth stages and pregnancy timeline
Physiologic Changes:
Reproductive System: Increase in uterine size, changes in breasts and cervix directly tied to pregnancy confirmation
Page 5: Cardiovascular and Respiratory Changes
Cardiovascular System:
Heart enlarges, rates increase
BP affected by position; positional hypotension may occur
Physiologic anemia: Due to changes in plasma volume, not actual RBC decrease
Respiratory System:
Increased oxygen needs, may lead to hyperventilation
Lightening may relieve diaphragm pressure
Page 6: Urinary, Integumentary, and Musculoskeletal Systems
Urinary System: Urinary urgency due to pressure of the uterus
Integumentary Changes: Increased skin pigmentation, "mask of pregnancy"
Musculoskeletal: Softening cartilage may lead to waddling gait
Page 7: Signs of Pregnancy
Presumptive Signs: Least reliable indicators experienced by the woman
Probable Signs: Documented by an examiner, but not definitive
Positive Signs: Confirmation through fetal heart sounds, movements, or imaging
Initial Prenatal Visit:
Gather comprehensive history for care plan
Calculate Estimated Date of Delivery (EDD)
Page 8: Ongoing Care
Ongoing Visits: Monitor weight, assess fetal development and readiness for delivery
Assess fetal heart rate: Normal range is 120-160 bpm
Page 9: Health Behavior Education
Bathing: Importance of hygiene and heat management
Exercise: Essential for physical health unless contraindicated
Nutrition: Essential for adequate weight gain and fetal development; limit caffeine and alcohol
Page 10: Substance Use and Discomforts
Tobacco and Alcohol: Encourage cessation and provide support
Common Discomforts: Nausea, backache, edema, etc.
Page 11: Psychological Responses
Trimester Responses: Emotional reactions evolve through pregnancy stages from uncertainty to preparation for parenting
Father and Sibling Responses: Varies by age and family dynamics
Page 12: Factors Influencing Adaptation
Consider personal circumstances, social support, and socio-economic factors
Childbirth Education: Various classes available to support preparation
Page 13: Nutrition as a Consideration
Increase in caloric and protein needs during pregnancy
Folate and Iron: Crucial supplements with dietary sources emphasized; recommend hydration and calorie awareness.