1. Warning Signs/Complications
1.1. Dysuria
1.2. Severe vomiting
1.3. Diarrhea
1.4. Fever or chills
1.5. Abdominal cramping
1.6. Vaginal bleeding
1.7. Gush of fluid from the vagina
1.8. Signs of gestational hypertension
1.9. Severe headache
1.10. Visual disturbance
1.11. Edema to the face and hands
1.12. Epigastric Pain
2. S&S of Preterm Labor: Call provider, go to the hospital
2.1. Uterine contractions
2.2. Cramps
2.3. Constant or irregular back pain
2.4. Pelvic pressure
2.5. Feels like baby is pushing down
2.6. Watery discharge
2.7. Gush of fluid from the vagina
3. Management of Preterm Labor
3.1. Stay hydrated, dehydration will cause uterine contractions
3.2. Bed rest
3.3. Typically no sexual intercourse is allowed
3.4. Tocolytic such as nifedipine
3.5. Educate client of hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, regimen, and compliance
3.6. Educate the client to monitor for signs of infection especially if premature rupture of membranes(PROM) occurred
3.7. If client is on an antibiotic, educate on regimen and compliance
3.8. Monitor fetal activity
3.9. Kick counts
3.10. Instruct client to return to hospital if warning signs reoccur
4. Discomforts
4.1. Provide education and relief methods
4.1.1. N/V
4.1.1.1. Dry crackers/toast before getting out of bed
4.1.2. Breast tenderness
4.1.2.1. Supportive bra
4.1.3. Round ligament pain
4.1.3.1. Ligaments strecthcing
4.1.4. Urinary frequency
4.1.4.1. Kegel exercises
4.1.4.2. Stay hydrated
4.1.5. Braxton Hicks Contractions
4.1.5.1. Irregular contraction felt anterior
4.1.5.1.1. Stay hydrated
4.1.6. Supine hypotension/Vena Cava Syndrome
4.1.6.1. Do not lay supine
4.1.6.1.1. Lay on side/change position
4.1.7. Fatigue
4.1.7.1. Frequent rest periods
4.1.8. Heartburn
4.1.8.1. Small frequent meals, avoid greasy, spicy, fatty foods, do not lie down after eating
4.1.9. Constipation
4.1.9.1. 2-3 L of water per day, high fiber foods, walking
4.1.10. Hemorrhoids
4.1.10.1. Witch Hazel (Tucks) pads
4.1.10.1.1. Sitz bath
5. Discomforts
5.1. Backache
5.1.1. Pelvic tilt exercises
5.2. Shortness of breath
5.2.1. Maintain good posture
5.2.1.1. Sleep with extra pillows
5.3. Leg cramps
5.3.1. Educate the client on manifestations of DVT
5.3.2. Apply warm compress
6. Discomforts
6.1. Varicose veins
6.1.1. Walk frequently
6.1.1.1. Support hose
6.1.1.1.1. Do not cross legs
6.2. Gingivitis/nasal stuffiness/epistaxis
6.2.1. Good oral care
6.2.1.1. Humidifier
6.2.2. Use normal saline drops