Nurses play a vital role in monitoring and ensuring the health of both the mother and fetus during pregnancy. Understanding placental function helps nurses:
Assess Fetal Well-being: Regular monitoring of placental function through ultrasound and other diagnostic tools can help detect issues such as placental insufficiency, which may lead to fetal growth restriction or other complications. Manage Pregnancy Complications: Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and placental abruption can affect placental function. Nurses must be equipped to recognize and respond to these complications promptly. Educate Expectant Mothers: Nurses provide valuable information to expectant mothers about the importance of a healthy placenta and how lifestyle choices, nutrition, and prenatal care can impact placental function.
