Amniocentesis
Purpose
To detect fetal abnormalities, particularly chromosomal and neural tube defects
To detect hemolytic disease of the newborn
To diagnose metabolic disorders, amino acid disorders, and mucopolysaccharidosis
To determine fetal lung maturity
To identify fetal gender when one or both parents are carriers of a sex-linked disorder
Patient preparation
Make sure the patient has signed an appropriate consent form.
Confirm the patient’s identity using two patient identifiers according to facility policy.
Note and report allergies.
Check Rh status.
Tell the patient that dietary restrictions aren’t necessary.
Check the patient’s history for hypersensitivity to local anesthetics.
Tell the patient that an ultrasound will be done first.
Have the patient empty her bladder just before the procedure.
Procedure
The patient is placed supine on the examination table and draped so that only the abdomen is exposed.
AlertIf the patient is past 30 weeks’ gestation, place her in the left lateral position to prevent hypotension.
During the test, fetal heart rate and rhythm, and maternal vital signs, are monitored.
A baseline recording of fetal heart rate is obtained.
A pocket of amniotic fluid is identified via ultrasound.
The skin is prepared with antiseptic and alcohol and a local anesthetic is given.
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