- Hydramnios = excessive amniotic fluid formation (volume of > 2000 mL or an amniotic fluid index above 24 cm.
- Normal volume = 500-1000 mL.
- It can cause fetal malpresentation.
- It can result it PROM and premature labor due to increased intrauterine pressure.
- Assessment:
- Unusually rapid enlargement of uterus.
- FHR is not fully accessible due to increased amount of fluid surrounding the fetus.
- There can be extreme shortness of breath due to greater pressure on the diaphragm.
- Positive increased weight gain.
- Sonography can confirm presence of hydramnios.
- Management:
- Maintaining bed-rest helps to increase uteroplacental circulation and reduces pressure on cervix.
- Instruct woman about signs and symptoms of PROM and uterine contractions.
- Avoid constipation.
- Assess vital signs and lower extremity edema every 4 hours.
- Instruct and prepare for amniocentesis as necessary.
- Indomethacin as ordered may reduce amount of amniotic fluid.
- Prevent premature labor by administering tocolytics and magnesium sulfate as ordered.
