Early and regular antepartal (before-birth) care is critical. First trimester health directly influences the development of organs in embryo and fetus.

To identify risks, nurses need both subjective (client’s) and objective (the nurse’s own) assessment data.

Prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, alcohol and tobacco may lead to problems for the fetus and woman.

Pregnancy diet must include increased calcium, protein, iron and folic acid.

If the client’s situation warrants, suggest ways to adapt activity, employment, and travel.

It is helpful if the woman can have the same support person throughout pregnancy and birthing classes.

Labor

Maintain safety and asepsis (sterilize instruments; wear gown, gloves, mask) through the labor and birth process to reduce risks to mother and fetus/newborn.

Ideally, same caregivers stay through all stages of labor.

Recognize urgent signs and act promptly.

Constantly assess and analyze problems to prioritize actions.

Reinforce the childbirth preparation techniques practiced by the couple during pregnancy.

Effective teaching during labor must be flexible. Mother will have shorter attention span, increasing discomfort, and emotional responses to labor.

Promote privacy of the woman and support person as much as possible.

Respect the cultural and religious beliefs of the woman and partner.

Involve the family in the birth process as noted in their birth plan or special requests.

Provide for the woman’s needs and comfort.

Communicate caring and concern to the woman and her family through therapeutic techniques.

Document assessments, changes in condition and care as promptly as possible.