Nursing protocols for antepartum home care

Abstract

Home care for women experiencing high-risk complications of pregnancy is a growing phenomenon. Home-care protocols for basic antenatal visits and the common conditions managed at home, such as preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, bleeding, pregnancy-induced hypertension, chronic hypertension, and diabetes during pregnancy, are presented. Knowledge of protocols guiding home care of the antepartum client enhances communication, collaboration, and coordination and ultimately fosters dialogue, which can improve the quality of care for women.