A. DESCRIPTION
1.A prolonged or postdate pregnancy is a pregnancy that extends beyond 42 weeks’ gestation.
2. The incidence of prolonged pregnancy is approximately 10%.
B. ETIOLOGY. The actual physiologic cause of prolonged pregnancy is unknown. A suggested etiology is estrogen deficiency.
C. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY. Pathophysiology includes excessively large infant with resultant birth trauma or small-for-gestational-age infant who are deprived of hydration and nutrition because of placental aging and dysfunction and decreased amniotic fluid.
D.ASSESSMENT FINDINGS
1.Clinical manifestations
a. Weight loss and decrease uterine size (when the infant is suffering from p placental dysfunction)
b. Excessively large uterus
c. Meconium-stained fluid.
d. Non-reassuring FHR pattern
2. Laboratory and diagnostic study findings. Ultrasound examination maybe use to assist in determination of fetal size.
E. NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Carefully assess the fetus to identify risk.
a. Perform a careful risk assessment upon admission.
b. Closely monitor fetal status.
2. Prevent birth complications.
a. Assist the induction of labor.
b. Prepare for a difficult delivery.
c. Notify the pediatric staff of the potential for a birth-injured baby.
3. Provide physical and emotional support.
4. Provide client and family education.