Diagnostic Procedures in Pregnancy

Introduction

• Presenter: Meris
• Topics: Diagnostic procedures in pregnancy: Ultrasound, Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), Amniocentesis
• Reference: 'Maternity Flashcards' from LevelUpRN.com

Ultrasound

• Purpose: Common diagnostic procedure in pregnancy
• Uses:
  • Locate pregnancy, ensure it's in the uterus and viable
  • Date the pregnancy
  • Anatomy scan (18-20 weeks) to examine baby's anatomical structures
• Types:
  • Abdominal Ultrasound: Done on the abdomen, usually after 10 weeks
  • Transvaginal Ultrasound: Transducer placed into the vagina; used for examining cervix in later pregnancy or early pregnancy
• Patient Teaching:
  • Full bladder is needed for abdominal ultrasound to reflect sound waves better
  • No full bladder needed for transvaginal ultrasound

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

• Definition: Sampling part of the chorion (placenta) to diagnose genetic conditions
• Timing: Early pregnancy (10-13 weeks)
• Procedure: Catheter passed through the cervix into the uterus
• Risks: Infection, miscarriage
• Rh-negative Patients: Should receive RhoGAM after the procedure
• Indications: Strong family/personal history of genetic conditions, early cell-free fetal DNA testing showing risk

Amniocentesis

• Definition: Sampling of amniotic fluid to diagnose genetic conditions
• Timing: Later pregnancy (15-18 weeks)
• Procedure: Needle passed through abdomen into the uterus and amniotic sac
• Concerns:
  • Risk of infection
  • Risk of damage to the fetus
  • Risk of rupture of membranes leading to amniotic fluid loss/leakage
  • Risk of miscarriage or fetal death
  • Rh-negative patients should receive RhoGAM

Conclusion

• Summary: Reviewed ultrasound, CVS, and amniocentesis
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• Personal Anecdote: Presenter shared experience of seeing her daughter swallowing amniotic fluid during an anatomy scan