Patient Comfort
Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy and, in particular, Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a challenge for both the sufferers and the healthcare professionals caring for them. Below is some information about how you can help sufferers with this debilitating and devastating condition both in the community and as in-patients on the ward.
This sample care plan was developed by registered nurse and Pregnancy Sickness Support trustee Dr Caitlin Dean for nurses and midwives to adapt to appropriate in their own professional environments. You can download a printable version here.
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Ensure medication is provided on time to enable stable blood levels of anti-emetics
Reduce sensory stimulation by providing a side room away from ‘smelly areas’, if possible, and ensuring staff are quiet and free from perfume whilst providing care
Provide snacks when required where possible but ask for permission before discussing or offerin food and drink
Review the effectiveness of medication and interventions daily or as required, using the PUQE-24 score
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Provide IV fluids as per the prescription
Warm IV fluids to 37 degrees before administration, if possible. This is to reduce calorific loss from cold IV fluid administration
Encourage oral fluids as and when they can be tolerated
Provide information on suitable fluids for pregnancy and tips on getting fluids, for example, via ice blocks
Monitor fluid balance input/output if appropriate
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Encourage oral food intake where possible
Provide information on fortifying food and fluid
Ensure medication regime is controlling vomiting and nutrient loss. Adjust timings to maximise the ability to eat at mealtimes
Provide snacks as and when they feel able to eat
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Where available, discuss referral to perinatal mental health team for support with the psychological impact of HG and refer if appropriate
Provide information about Hyperemesis Australia and make a referral to the support network if required
Ensure they have an advocate for ward rounds with doctors if they are struggling to speak due to nausea and vomiting
Ensure informed consent is obtained for all treatments, tests and procedures
Provide written information about hyperemesis and any treatments or medication
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Provide a side room where possible to reduce sensory stimulation such as smell and sound and reduce distress from public vomiting and episodes of incontinence
Provide pressure-relieving mattress to reduce the risk of pressure damage from prolonged bed rest
Ensure vomit bowls and urine samples are removed promptly and adequately empty receptacles provided
Recommend a podcast
When you’ve imagined spending your pregnancy working, decorating a nursery, going to brunch or just enjoying time with your growing baby, the days, weeks and months of pregnancy sickness can be isolating and boring. Many sufferers report feeling like they’re the only person to experience a pregnancy like this - and for these reasons, Hyperemesis Australia created You, Me & HG.
The hosts of You, Me & HG, Caitlin and Yanika, are committed to reducing the loneliness and isolation HG sufferers live with by presenting a podcast full of survivor stories, plus tips and tricks for getting through the long days, paired with resources and education.
Intended to be a vital resource not just for sufferers and survivors, but for anyone wishing to better understand the reality of a sick pregnancy, You, Me & HG is a must-listen guide to living with HG.
Hyperemesis Australia partnered with the Centre for Perinatal Excellence to produce a special HG Edition of the Ready to Cope app. This free app ensures that sufferers have access to quality information throughout their pregnancy and first year of parenthood - and the HG Edition is like having a dedicated HG cheerleader in your pocket. Recommending resources like this can go along way to ensuring the sufferers in your care feel supported and equipped.
Support in their pocket
We encourage you to recommend sufferers join our incredible Facebook support group. Being part of a dedicated online community allows sufferers to connect with others who truly understand their experiences, providing emotional validation, empathy, and practical advice. Additionally, these support groups often share valuable resources, coping strategies, and up-to-date information on HG management, empowering individuals to advocate for their health and well-being. By recommending participation in such groups, healthcare professionals can enhance the support network available to HG sufferers, fostering resilience and promoting a sense of solidarity throughout their journey.