Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

stretched and shiny with marked strike gravidarum and
obvious superficial blood vessels.
On palpation- the uterus feels tense and it is difficult to feel
the fetal parts but the fetus may be balloted between the two
hands.A fluid thrill may be elicited.
Ascultation auscultation of the fetal heart is difficult because
the quantity of fluid allows the fetus to move away from the
fethoscope.
- Ultrasonic scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis and
may reveal a multiple pregnancy or fetal abnormality.
Management
The cause of the condition should be determined if possible
the mother will usually be admitted to a consultant obstetric
unit.
Subsequent care will be depending on:
- the mother’s condition
- cause of the polyhydramnios
- the stage of pregnancy
The general condition of the fetus will be taken in to
consideration in choosing the mode and timing of delivery.
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