Care of a pregnant woman with aortic stenosis and intrauterine growth restriction – case study

Abstract

Introduction: Stenosis of the aortic valve is the most common acquired heart defect, which involves reducing the area of this valve. In the case of pregnant women, this defect, due to changes in the cardiovascular system, results in miscarriages, pre-term delivery, or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). IUGR is a condition in which the foetus is too small in relation to gestational age, and its consequences may include perinatal hypoxia, meconium aspiration syndrome, or respiratory distress syndrome. Aim of the study: To analyse the case of a 30-year-old female patient with aortic stenosis and intrauterine growth restriction, diagnosed during pregnancy, as well as to formulate diagnoses and plan nursing and obstetric care for this pregnant woman. Discussion: The present thesis includes a case study of a pregnant woman with aortic stenosis detected during pregnancy and intrauterine growth restriction. The analysis concerned the patient’s planned hospitalisation. The essential elements of hospitalisation included the control of general and obstetric conditions, monitoring of the foetus’ condition, as well as pharmacotherapy that aimed at improving the haemodynamic conditions of the pregnant woman. Conclusions: Narrowing of the aortic valve in pregnant women complicated by the occurrence of IUGR is a rare clinical condition. Providing medical care of such a pregnant woman focuses on the control of general and obstetrical parameters. The participation of a midwife in pharmacotherapy and assisting in the doctor’s examinations also constitutes an important element in obtaining information about this medical condition, as well as planning nursing and obstetric care.