Nursing Care Plan (NCP) for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
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Outline
Lesson Objectives for Hyperemesis Gravidarum Nursing Care Plan:
- Understanding of Hyperemesis Gravidarum:
- Define and comprehend hyperemesis gravidarum, distinguishing it from normal pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Gain knowledge about its potential causes, risk factors, and impact on maternal and fetal health.
- Recognition of Symptoms:
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum, including severe nausea, persistent vomiting, dehydration, weight loss, and electrolyte imbalances. Understand the importance of early identification for prompt intervention.
- Assessment Skills:
- Develop skills in assessing pregnant individuals for hyperemesis gravidarum, including history-taking, physical examination, and laboratory assessments. Learn to differentiate hyperemesis gravidarum from other pregnancy-related conditions.
- Implementation of Supportive Care:
- Implement strategies for supportive care, such as dietary modifications, hydration management, and antiemetic therapy. Understand the role of nutritional counseling and emotional support to enhance overall well-being.
- Collaborative Management:
- Collaborate with healthcare providers in managing hyperemesis gravidarum, including obstetricians, dietitians, and mental health professionals. Understand the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to address the complex needs of pregnant individuals with hyperemesis gravidarum.
Pathophysiology of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Hormonal Factors:
- Elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, are associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. The exact mechanisms by which hCG contributes to excessive vomiting are not fully understood.
- Gastrointestinal Motility:
- Hyperemesis gravidarum is linked to disturbances in gastrointestinal motility. Slowed gastric emptying and altered smooth muscle function in the digestive tract contribute to increased nausea and vomiting.
- Metabolic and Nutritional Imbalances:
- Prolonged vomiting leads to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. The loss of fluids and electrolytes, especially potassium, can result in metabolic disturbances and further exacerbate symptoms.
- Genetic and Environmental Factors:
- There may be a genetic predisposition to hyperemesis gravidarum, with a higher likelihood of occurrence in women with a family history of severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Environmental factors, such as stress and certain lifestyle factors, may also play a role.
- Psychosocial Influences:
- Emotional and psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, and previous experiences of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, can contribute to the severity of hyperemesis gravidarum. The interplay between physiological and psychosocial factors makes the condition multifaceted.
Etiology of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG):
- Elevated levels of hCG, a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy, are a primary factor in the development of hyperemesis gravidarum. The exact mechanism by which hCG contributes to severe nausea and vomiting is not fully understood.
- Gastrointestinal Changes:
- Changes in gastrointestinal motility and function, possibly influenced by hormonal fluctuations, contribute to the development of hyperemesis gravidarum. Slowed gastric emptying and altered smooth muscle activity in the digestive tract can lead to persistent nausea and vomiting.
- Genetic Predisposition:
- There is evidence to suggest a genetic component in the development of hyperemesis gravidarum. Women with a family history of severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy may have a higher risk of experiencing this condition.
- Multifactorial Triggers:
- The etiology of hyperemesis gravidarum is likely multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Stress, nutritional status, and psychosocial factors may also contribute to the severity of symptoms.
- Thyroid Dysfunction:
- Some studies suggest a link between hyperemesis gravidarum and thyroid dysfunction. Abnormalities in thyroid function, such as hyperthyroidism, may contribute to the development of severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Desired Outcome for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Hydration and Nutritional Support:
- Ensure the patient achieves and maintains adequate hydration and nutrition to support both maternal and fetal well-being.
- Symptom Management:
- Alleviate and manage symptoms of nausea and vomiting, aiming for a significant reduction in frequency and severity to improve the quality of life for the pregnant individual.
- Weight Stabilization:
- Achieve and maintain a stable weight, preventing excessive weight loss and nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy.
- Improved Daily Functioning:
- Enhance the patient’s ability to engage in daily activities and routines by minimizing the impact of hyperemesis gravidarum on their overall functioning.
- Psychosocial Support:
- Provide emotional and psychological support to address the mental health aspects associated with hyperemesis gravidarum, promoting a positive pregnancy experience.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum Nursing Care Plan
Subjective Data:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Food/smell aversions
- Headache
- Confusion
Objective Data:
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Fainting
- Jaundice
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Weight loss
Nursing Assessment for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Medical History:
- Obtain a detailed medical history, including previous pregnancies, occurrences of hyperemesis gravidarum, and any relevant medical conditions.
- Gastrointestinal Assessment:
- Assess the frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting, noting any triggers or patterns.
- Nutritional Assessment:
- Evaluate the patient’s nutritional status, including weight loss, signs of malnutrition, and dietary habits.
- Fluid Balance:
- Monitor fluid intake and output to assess hydration status, looking for signs of dehydration such as decreased urine output or concentrated urine.
- Vital Signs:
- Regularly measure vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, to identify any abnormalities.
- Lab Work:
- Order and review relevant laboratory tests, such as electrolyte levels and complete blood count, to assess for imbalances and anemia.
- Psychosocial Assessment:
- Conduct a psychosocial assessment to explore the emotional impact of hyperemesis gravidarum, identifying stressors and coping mechanisms.
- Fetal Assessment:
- Monitor fetal well-being through methods such as ultrasound to ensure the baby is developing appropriately despite the challenges posed by hyperemesis gravidarum.
Implementation for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Fluid and Electrolyte Management:
- Administer intravenous fluids to address dehydration and correct electrolyte imbalances. Monitor fluid intake and output closely.
- Nutritional Support:
- Collaborate with a registered dietitian to develop a nutritional plan, which may include small, frequent meals, and nutritional supplements. Provide antiemetic medications as prescribed.
- Medication Administration:
- Administer medications such as antiemetics (e.g., ondansetron) or vitamin B6 supplements as prescribed to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
- Patient Education:
- Educate the patient on self-care strategies, including dietary modifications, rest, and stress reduction. Provide information on when to seek medical attention for worsening symptoms.
- Psychosocial Support:
- Offer emotional support and counseling to address the psychological impact of hyperemesis gravidarum. Involve the patient’s family in providing support and understanding.
Nursing Interventions and Rationales
| Nursing Intervention (ADPIE) | Rationale |
| Assess Vital Signs | HR, RR, BP. Get baseline vitals and note any changes (tachycardia, hypotension, tachypnea) |
| Assess for signs of dehydration | dry membranes, skin tenting, confusion. All signs of dehydration
Patient can lose many fluids from vomiting/inability to tolerate oral fluids |
| Monitor diagnostic lab values | Metabolic panel (see if the patient has an electrolyte imbalance or renal impairment from excessive vomiting (Metabolic Alkalosis) |
| Administer IV fluids/Medications | IV fluids will be necessary to help manage electrolyte balance and maintain adequate hydration.
Medications may be administered to help relieve nausea. |
| Monitor I’s & O’s | Monitor urine and emesis for blood; also note dark urine and decreased output that indicates renal function impairment |
| Assess for and treat constipation as necessary | Decreased intestinal motility from dehydration can cause uncomfortable constipation.
Encourage oral intake as tolerated to increase intestinal motility and relieve constipation. Administer stool softeners as appropriate |
| Monitor nutrition status to prevent further weight loss/weight patient | Encourage oral intake as tolerated
Provide frequent snacks Insert and maintain nasogastric feeding as appropriate Excessive vomiting and food/smell aversions make it difficult to maintain proper nutrition and tube feedings may be necessary to provide adequate nutrition for patients and fetuses. |
| Provide a comfortable environment | Loose-fitting garments
Decrease environmental stimulation (light/noise) Avoid foods or odors that trigger nausea |
| Promote safety | Emesis basin within easy reach
Clear access to toilet Non-slip socks/shoes
Avoid accidents or injuries by providing a safe environment. Provide assistance and supplies as necessary to promote skin integrity and avoid falls. |
Evaluation for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Symptom Resolution:
- Assess the reduction in nausea and vomiting symptoms. Evaluate whether the frequency and intensity have decreased following the implementation of the care plan.
- Hydration Status:
- Monitor the patient’s hydration status through regular assessments of vital signs, urine output, and laboratory values. Look for signs of improvement, such as normalized electrolyte levels.
- Weight Gain:
- Track the patient’s weight gain over time. Evaluate if there is a positive trend, indicating nutritional improvement and reduced impact on maternal and fetal health.
- Patient Satisfaction:
- Gather feedback from the patient regarding their satisfaction with the care plan. Assess whether the interventions were effective and well-tolerated, making adjustments as needed.
- Psychosocial Well-being:
- Evaluate the patient’s mental health and emotional well-being. Assess if psychosocial support measures have positively impacted the patient’s ability to cope with the condition.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12232-hyperemesis-gravidarum-severe-nausea–vomiting-during-pregnancy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/morning-sickness/symptoms-causes/syc-20375254
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Example Nursing Diagnosis For Nursing Care Plan (NCP) for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Fluid Volume Deficit: Hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to severe dehydration due to excessive vomiting. This diagnosis addresses fluid balance.
- Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements: Patients with hyperemesis gravidarum often struggle with food intake. This diagnosis focuses on nutritional deficits.
- Risk for Maternal Injury: Severe vomiting and electrolyte imbalances can pose a risk to the mother. This diagnosis emphasizes injury prevention.
Transcript
Hey everyone. We are going to be working on the nursing care plan for hyperemesis gravidarum. So let’s get started. So we’re going to first look at pathophysiology. So hyperemesis gravidarum is a morning sickness that causes long lasting, intense nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. While morning sickness is common, hyperemesis gravidarum develops between the fourth and six weeks of pregnancy, and it may last beyond week 20. Some nursing considerations: you want to assess vital signs, assess for dehydration, monitor lab values, administer IV fluids, medications, monitor I & O, and monitor for constipation. Some desired outcomes: reduce and manage the symptoms of nausea and vomiting, maintain appropriate nutrition and hydration, and avoid any sort of complications and injury to the patient and the fetus.
So we’re going to go ahead and get started on the care plan. We’re going to be looking at some of the subjective data and the objective data. So what are we going to see with these patients? Some of the biggest things are nausea and vomiting. So for some of them, this can be pretty debilitating to where it’s very difficult to be able to get through some of your daily tasks. So this is one of the main things that they talk about. Another thing is weakness. You’ll also see that they’re going to be very dehydrated and you’ll see hypotension – decreased blood pressure. Other things to consider: dizziness, fatigue, some food or smell aversions, headache, confusion, also fainting, jaundice, tachycardia (increased heart rate), and some weight loss.
So what interventions are we going to look for in these patients? Well, one of the things that we want to make sure we’re always doing with every patient is we’re going to be checking and assessing their vital signs – their heart rate, respirations, and blood pressure. You’ll want to get a baseline vital and note any other changes. So if you do see that they’re pretty tachycardic, and they have decreased blood pressure, it could be because of the vomiting. Another intervention that we’re going to look for is any sort of signs of dehydration; because, once again, if they’re super nauseous and vomiting a lot, they’re losing a lot of those fluids, which can make them pretty confused. You’re going to look for any sort of dry membranes, any skin tenting, which are all signs of dehydration. Another intervention we’re going to be looking to do is monitor their lab values.
Okay. Monitor lab values. So metabolic panel is typically what you would want to run for these patients. You want to see if they have any sort of electrolyte imbalance or any sort of renal impairment from the excessive vomiting, which could lead to metabolic alkalosis. Other interventions: we’re going to make sure we’re giving them IV fluids and medications. The IV fluids will be necessary and will help manage their electrolyte balance and maintain adequate hydration. Certain medications can be administered for these patients and are able to help relieve the nausea that they’re feeling. We’re going to monitor their I & O: we want to make sure that they’re taking in enough and monitoring their urine output and the amount of emesis. You also want to note any sort of dark colored urine and any decreased urine output, which could imply that there’s some sort of renal function impairment.
Another intervention we’re going to do is we’re going to be treating for constipation. A decrease in intestinal mobility from dehydration can cause some uncomfortable constipation. So you really want to encourage oral intake as tolerated and increase intestinal motility to relieve the constipation. And sometimes you may end up needing to give stool softeners. And another intervention that we want to do is we want to make sure that the patient is not losing any more weight. You want to encourage them to have an increased food intake or fluid intake, and you may have to insert an NG tube for feeding if excessive vomiting and food smell aversions make it difficult to maintain proper nutrition. And tube feedings may be necessary to provide adequate nutrition for patients and the fetus.
So let’s go over some of the key points. So pathophysiology: basically it is extreme morning sickness that can cause long lasting intense nausea, vomiting, and weight loss and is usually caused by a rapid rise in hormone or HCG levels. Some subjective objective data you’ll see in these patients: nausea and vomiting. You’ll also see weight loss, headache, weakness, dehydration, and hypotension. You’re going to see a high heart rate, fainting and confusion. You’re going to want to make sure you’re doing your assessments and giving medications. You’re going to look at their vital signs, check for the signs of dehydration, monitor the lab values and give antiemetics for that nausea and vomiting. Lastly, you’re going to assist with nutrition and help with constipation. Prevent any further weight loss by encouraging fluid and food intake as tolerated and give any stool softeners for constipation as needed.
Great job guys. We love you go out and be your best self today. And, as always, happy nursing.
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