Medical Assessment of Pregnancy

Questions and Answers

What does an elevated blood pressure of $160/110$ indicate in the context of pregnancy?

Preterm delivery likelihood

Oligohydramnios risk

Hypertension diagnosis (correct)

Normal blood pressure

Which of the following measurements is associated with oligohydramnios?

Low fetal measurements (correct)

Irregular fetal heart rate

Preterm birth weight

High blood pressure

What position should a pregnant woman avoid to prevent superior vena cava syndrome?

Laying on her stomach

Sitting upright

Standing upright

Laying on her back (correct)

What common condition is suggested by two fetal measurements indicating below normal levels?

Oligohydramnios Signup and view all the answers

After which week of pregnancy does a change in blood pressure indicate a potential cardiac problem?

After 20 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential effect of advanced maternal age, specifically age 40, during pregnancy?

Increased chance of cardiovascular disease Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate intervention for managing hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy?

Utilize small, frequent meals to minimize fluid intake Signup and view all the answers

What condition is characterized by elevated blood pressure readings, often noted as 140/90 after the 20th week of pregnancy?

Preeclampsia Signup and view all the answers

Which vitamin is commonly recommended to be supplemented if a woman is lactating?

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) Signup and view all the answers

What might be a consequence of inadequate prenatal care due to fears of legal consequences?

Higher rates of low birth weight and congenital anomalies Signup and view all the answers

Which sign may indicate the need for further evaluation during pregnancy due to potential complications?

Noticing vomiting accompanied by tachycardia Signup and view all the answers

What dietary modification is advisable for women experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum?

Frequent, small meals Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with elevated maternal blood pressure and low platelets during pregnancy?

Intrauterine growth restriction Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pregnancy Care and Assessments

Subjective feelings reported by the mother and provider's observations are crucial for prenatal assessments.
Doppler ultrasound is used around 10-12 weeks gestation to monitor fetal heart activity.
An empty bladder is needed before measuring fundal height as it provides an accurate reading.

Nutrition and Supplements

Clean food preparation is essential to prevent contamination: vegetables should be washed, and meat properly cooked.
Vaccination prior to pregnancy is recommended to protect maternal and fetal health.
Lactating women should supplement with 0.5 mg of folic acid to support fetal development, especially red blood cell formation.

Potential Obstetric Complications

Women may avoid prenatal care due to fear of legal repercussions, leading to increased morbidity and mortality risks.
Conditions like preterm labor, low birth weight, and congenital anomalies can arise from inadequate prenatal care and substance exposure.
Preeclampsia is a significant pregnancy condition characterized by high blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher after 20 weeks) and may involve symptoms like vomiting and tachycardia.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Dietary Management

Hyperemesis gravidarum involves excessive nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, requiring specialized dietary management such as small, frequent meals and limited fluid intake.
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) and doxylamine may be recommended to alleviate nausea.

Maternal Age and Health Risks

Maternal age, specifically over 40 years, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease during pregnancy.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can complicate pregnancy; monitoring is necessary for early intervention.

Growth Assessments and Hypertension

Small for gestational age (SGA) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are potential outcomes from nutritional deficiencies or maternal health complications.
Elevated liver enzymes, low platelet counts, and elevated creatinine levels indicate possible pregnancy-related disorders.
Definitive diagnostics for hypertension include monitoring blood pressure changes, especially after 20 weeks, with significant numbers indicating potential cardiovascular problems.
Pregnant women should always sleep on their sides to avoid compression of the superior vena cava, minimizing risks to fetal circulation.