Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

Antenatal care
Diagnosis of cardiac disease in some women may only make
during antenatal vists. The aim of management is to maintain
or improve the physical and psychological well being of
mother and fetus. This involves keeping a steady
haemodynamic state and preventing complication.
Intrapartum care
The first stage of labour
The least stressful labour for a woman with cardiac disease
will be spontaneous in on set and result in a vaginal delivery.
Blood may be cross-matched in case of need. Oxygen and
resuscitation equipment should be available and functioning.
- Pulse ,blood pressure and fetal condition should be
monitored and recorded
- Administration of prophylaxis antibiotic to prevent
endocarditis
- Positioning – encouraged to adopt a position in which she
is comfortable
- Maintain fluid balance
The second stage of labour
The second stage should be short and with out undue
exertion on the part of the mother. She advised to avoid
holding her breath and follows her natural desire to push;
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