Pregnant women with diabetes often experience difficulty with insulin effectiveness during the second half of pregnancy due to increased levels of human placental lactogen. This hormone acts as an insulin antagonist, reducing the effectiveness of insulin, stimulating lipolysis, and increasing the circulation of free fatty acids. Consequently, glucose regulation becomes more challenging, necessitating closer monitoring and potential adjustments in diabetes management.
The recommended range for serum glucose levels during pregnancy is between 70 mg/dL and 120 mg/dL to reduce the risk of perinatal mortality. Maintaining glucose levels within this range helps to minimize the risk of complications for both the mother and fetus. Levels above 120 mg/dL can increase the risk of complications such as macrosomia and neonatal hypoglycemia, while levels below 70 mg/dL can lead to maternal hypoglycemia, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the child.
Late decelerations with tachycardia and decreasing variability in fetal heart rate are signs of fetal distress, suggesting that the fetus may not be getting adequate oxygen. This situation requires immediate intervention to prevent potential harm to the baby. The nurse should report these findings to the physician or midwife immediately so that appropriate actions can be taken, such as repositioning the mother, administering oxygen, increasing IV fluids, or preparing for potential emergency delivery.
Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is primarily used in the management of preeclampsia to prevent seizures. Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to eclampsia, a severe complication involving seizures. MgSO4 acts as an anticonvulsant by depressing the central nervous system to reduce the risk of seizures. It is not typically used for the prevention of uterine contractions, sedation, or fetal lung protection.
The predominant purpose of the first Apgar scoring of a newborn is to evaluate the infant’s vital functions. The Apgar score, taken shortly after birth, assesses the newborn's breathing, heart rate, muscle tone, reflexes, and skin color to determine how well the baby is doing and whether immediate medical care is required.