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2BSN4
Napao, Camelle Ann C.
2BSN4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(Health Condition)
Description
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting that occurs
during pregnancy. It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience some degree of nausea
and vomiting, especially during the first trimester, but HG is much more severe and persistent.
The exact cause of HG is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the increase in
pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, and
progesterone. These hormones can cause the digestive system to slow down and the stomach to
empty more slowly, leading to nausea and vomiting. Although HG can be a challenging and
debilitating condition, most women with HG recover completely after delivery. However, some
may experience ongoing digestive problems or mental health issues related to their experience
with HG. Women with a history of HG are also at increased risk for the condition in subsequent
pregnancies.
1. Severe and persistent nausea: HG causes intense and ongoing feelings of nausea, which
may be present all day long.
2. Vomiting: Women with HG may vomit multiple times a day, which can lead to
dehydration and malnutrition.
3. Weight loss: Due to the persistent vomiting, women with HG may experience significant
weight loss, and in severe cases, may become malnourished.
4. Dehydration: Vomiting can cause significant fluid loss, leading to dehydration.
Symptoms of dehydration may include dry mouth, decreased urine output, and feeling
dizzy or lightheaded.
5. Fatigue: Due to the persistent nausea, vomiting, and dehydration, women with HG
may feel fatigued, weak, or have difficulty concentrating.
6. Headache and dizziness: These symptoms can occur due to dehydration and lack of
nutrients.
7. Fainting: Severe dehydration and malnutrition may cause fainting or loss of
consciousness.
8. Food aversions: Women with HG may develop strong aversions to certain foods, or even
to all types of food.
9. Increased salivation: Some women with HG may experience excessive salivation,
which can exacerbate nausea.
10.
Napao, Camelle Ann C.
2BSN4
Diagnostic and Laboratory Test
> Not fully understood
Risk Factors
1. History of HG: Women who have had HG in a previous pregnancy are at increased risk
of developing it in future pregnancies.
2. Multiple gestation: Women carrying multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) are at higher risk for
HG.
3. First-time pregnancy: Women who are pregnant for the first time are at higher risk for
HG.
4. Age: Women who are younger than 20 or older than 35 may be at higher risk for HG.
5. Obesity: Women with a high body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy may be at
increased risk for HG.
6. Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Women with Gestational Trophoblastic Disease
(GTD) are at higher risk for HG.
7. Migraines: Women with a history of migraines may be more likely to develop HG.
8. Psychiatric disorders: Women with a history of depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric
disorders may be at higher risk for HG.
9. Motion sickness: Women who are prone to motion sickness may be more likely to
develop HG.
10. Vitamin deficiencies: Women who have low levels of certain vitamins, such as vitamin
B6, may be at higher risk for HG.
Pathophysiology
The exact pathophysiology of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is not fully understood, but
it is thought to be related to the increase in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic
gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, and progesterone. These hormones can cause changes in the
gastrointestinal tract, including slowing down the digestive system and decreasing the rate at
which food moves through the stomach and intestines. This can lead to nausea and vomiting.
Additionally, high levels of hCG have been shown to stimulate the thyroid gland, which can
contribute to nausea and vomiting.
Napao, Camelle Ann C.
2BSN4
Here are three nursing diagnosis for hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) with their
corresponding rationales, listed in order of priority:
1. Fluid volume deficit related to persistent vomiting and decreased oral intake.
Rationale: HG can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can cause
serious health complications for both the mother and the developing fetus. Maintaining adequate
fluid balance is a top priority in the management of HG.
Rationale: HG can lead to significant weight loss and malnutrition, which can affect the health
of the mother and fetus. Providing adequate nutrition is important for preventing complications
and promoting optimal fetal development.
3. Anxiety related to uncertainty about the pregnancy, fear of harm to the fetus, and
discomfort from persistent nausea and vomiting.
Rationale: Women with HG may experience significant psychological distress and anxiety due
to the uncertainty and discomfort associated with the condition. Addressing these psychological
concerns can help to improve the woman's overall well-being and may also help to alleviate
some of the physical symptoms of HG.
The nursing management and interventions for hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) may vary
depending on the severity of the symptoms and the woman's individual needs, but here are some
general interventions that may be helpful:
1. Monitoring vital signs and laboratory values: Women with HG are at risk for
dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, so it is important to monitor vital signs, such as
blood pressure and heart rate, as well as laboratory values, such as electrolyte levels and
renal function.
2. Administering antiemetic medications: Antiemetic medications, such as ondansetron or
promethazine, can be helpful in reducing nausea and vomiting in women with HG. These
medications should be prescribed by a healthcare provider and administered according to
the prescribed dosage and frequency.
3. Nutritional support: Women with HG may have difficulty maintaining adequate oral
intake, and may require nutritional support in the form of enteral or parenteral nutrition.
Napao, Camelle Ann C.
2BSN4
Nurses can work with a registered dietitian to develop an appropriate nutrition plan based
on the woman's individual needs.
4. Psychological support: Women with HG may experience significant psychological
distress and anxiety related to their symptoms and the impact on their pregnancy. Nurses
can provide emotional support, as well as referrals to mental health professionals if
needed.
5. Patient education: Educating women about HG, its causes, and management strategies
is an important part of nursing care. Women should be taught how to monitor for signs of
dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, how to manage their symptoms at home, and
when to seek medical attention if their symptoms worsen.