Hyperemesis Gravidarum
🚨 Symptoms
Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (beyond typical morning sickness), weight loss (>5% pre-pregnancy weight), dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, ketonuria, inability to keep food/fluids down
🔍 Causes
Exact cause unknown; likely related to high hCG levels, estrogen; risk factors: multiple pregnancy, molar pregnancy, previous hyperemesis, family history, history of motion sickness/migraine
💊 Treatment
IV fluids for rehydration, antiemetics (ondansetron, metoclopramide, promethazine), thiamine supplementation to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy, electrolyte replacement, nutritional support (enteral or parenteral if severe), psychological support
📝 Nursing Care
Monitor fluid intake and output, assess for signs of dehydration, administer IV fluids and antiemetics, monitor electrolytes, provide small frequent meals, offer emotional support, assess for depression/anxiety
Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.