Perioperative Assessment of the Obstetric Patient Undergoing Abdominal Surgery

Care of the obstetric patient undergoing nonobstetric surgery can be challenging. Approximately 1 in 500 pregnancies is complicated by a nonobstetric surgical condition. To adequately care for the mother and fetus, the nurse must know the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, and make an aggressive attempt to maintain those changes. This article reviews common reasons for abdominal surgery during pregnancy, the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, techniques to maintain those responses, and discusses issues related to fetal monitoring and postoperative care.