Fetal developmental milestones
Fetal developmental milestones The fetus typically achieves specific developmental milestones by the end of certain gestational weeks. By the end of the fourth week, the fetus shows signs of growth…
Assessing pregnancy by weeks
Assessing pregnancy by weeks Here are some assessment findings you can expect as pregnancy progresses. Weeks 1 to 4 Amenorrhea occurs. Breasts begin to change. Immunologic pregnancy tests become positive:…
Understanding supine hypotension
Understanding supine hypotension When a pregnant woman lies on her back, the weight of the uterus presses on the vena cava and aorta, as shown below. This obstructs blood flow…
Cultural childbearing practices
Cultural childbearing practices Cultural beliefs commonly affect an individual’s attitudes toward illness and traditional medicine. By trying to accommodate beliefs and practices in your care plan for a pregnant woman,…
Fetal presentation
Fetal presentation Fetal presentation may be broadly classified as cephalic, breech, shoulder, or compound. Cephalic presentations occur in most deliveries. Of the remaining three, breech deliveries are most common. Cephalic…
Cultural pain facts
Cultural pain facts Cultural influences play a role in how a woman expresses or represses pain. These influences also determine whether she uses pharmacologic methods of pain relief. In many…
Determining fetal position (Leopold’s maneuvers)
Determining fetal position (Leopold’s maneuvers) You can determine fetal position, presentation, and attitude by performing Leopold’s maneuvers. Ask the patient to empty her bladder; then assist her to a supine…
Fetal position abbreviations
Fetal position abbreviations The following abbreviations, organized according to variations in presentation, are used when documenting fetal position. Vertex presentation (occiput) LOA, left occipitoanterior LOP, left occipitoposterior
Assessing the nonpregnant and pregnant breast
Assessing the nonpregnant and pregnant breast Subtle changes appear in the breasts of a pregnant patient due to increased estrogen and progestin production.
Assessing skin changes during pregnancy
Assessing skin changes during pregnancy Linea nigra and striae gravidarum are two skin changes that occur during pregnancy. Both fade after pregnancy, with striae gravidarum fading to glistening silvery lines.
