Guidelines for Evaluating Medical Conditions

This is a general MSS guideline when reviewing MSS medical risk factors

Screen and Assess

• Review the client’s health history
• Observe and record any negative physical health symptoms or client complaints discovered or discussed during a visit
• Determine the current status of the medical condition/symptoms and management by the obstetrical care provider
• Review and record any treatment prescribed or self-administered to decrease symptoms and/or prevent complications during the maternity cycle
• Explore the client’s understanding of the medical condition/symptoms, treatment and the potential effects it may have on pregnancy, health, and infant outcomes

Educate

• Share preventive health information and self-care methods that may enhance her ability to cope with the condition/symptoms and follow any prescribed treatment regimes
• Review basic health care messages including “danger signs” during pregnancy

Intervention

• Refer to MSS Nurse regarding any emergent or increasing symptoms of physical distress or discomfort
• Refer to the MSS RD for Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
• Coordinate care and consult with the medical provider regarding emergent symptoms and/or emergency room when symptoms require immediate attention
• Case conference and develop a plan with interdisciplinary team when medical conditions are complex, infectious, or chronic

Surveillance - Monitor, Follow-up and Ongoing assessment

• Continue to follow client status and determine if interventions are working or need to be adjusted
• Document outcomes on the care plan, and if no changes occurred since the risk factor was identified, note why