Heart Disease in Pregnancy Flashcards
(20 cards)
What are the different types of heart disease classifications in pregnancy?
Congenital or Acquired; Functional or Structural; Cyanotic or Acyanotic; Endocardial, Myocardial or Pericardial defects.
What is the incidence rate of heart disease during pregnancy?
1% to 3% of pregnant women.
Which types of heart diseases are more prevalent in developing countries?
Rheumatic heart disease.
Name at least four causes of heart disease in pregnancy.
Hypertensive heart disease, Rheumatic heart disease, Cardiomyopathies, Endomyocardial fibrosis, Congenital heart disease, Anaemic heart disease, Coronary heart disease.
Why is preconceptional care important for women with heart disease?
To stabilise the medical condition and improve pregnancy outcomes.
What are the NYHA classes of heart disease?
Class I, Class II, Class III, Class IV.
What is the recommended frequency of antenatal visits for Class III and IV heart disease?
Weekly, with possible hospitalisation for most of the pregnancy period.
Name five conditions that can precipitate heart failure during pregnancy.
Fever, Malaria, Anaemia, Infections (UTI/Respiratory), Fluid overload, Arrhythmias, Stress.
What dietary recommendations are given to pregnant women with heart disease?
High-protein, low-salt diet with routine supplementation (e.g. iron, folic acid).
What is the purpose of malaria chemoprophylaxis in heart disease patients?
To prevent complications from malaria which can strain cardiac function.
What are some high-risk behaviours to avoid in pregnant women with heart disease?
Smoking, alcohol, and illicit drug use.
Is induction of labour contraindicated in women with heart disease?
No, it is not contraindicated unless it results in prolonged delivery time.
List three important measures during labour for women with heart disease.
Prophylactic antibiotics, continuous fetal heart rate monitoring, cardiac position nursing, adequate analgesia, strict input/output monitoring.
Which oxytocic drug is preferred during the third stage of labour?
Oxytocin.
When is caesarean section indicated in women with heart disease?
Only for obstetric indications.
Why is close monitoring important within the first 72 hours postpartum?
Because the risk of pulmonary oedema remains high, especially in the first 12 hours postpartum.
When should cardiovascular responses be expected to fully normalise postpartum?
Up to 7 months after delivery.
Why is patient education essential in managing heart disease in pregnancy?
It ensures better compliance and contributes to a successful pregnancy outcome.
What role does genetic counselling play in preconceptional care?
It helps assess the genetic risk and guide management plans pre-pregnancy.
What post-discharge follow-up is recommended for women with heart disease?
Scheduled appointments with both cardiologist and obstetrician.
