Facility Readiness Assessment to Care for the Obese Pregnant Patient
- State 3 diagnoses the obese patient is at increased risk for during pregnancy.
- Review the Facility Readiness Assessment tool in the identification of potential needs in the care of the obese obstetric patient.
- Identify clinical practice changes to support patient safety in the care of the obese pregnant patient.
Purpose for the program: The purpose of this project is to provide an opportunity for nurses to make a difference in people’s lives. Obesity is the fastest growing problem in the United States. Thirty five percent of adult women are obese. Studies show an increased risk during pregnancy in the setting of obesity. This includes higher rates of diabetes, preeclampsia, fetal growth problems, cesarean delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, and infections.
Proposed change: The proposed change will allow healthcare facilities to assess their readiness to care for the obese pregnant patient. Failure to plan in advance for the special needs of this patient population can put the patient and the care giver at risk for injury. A proposed multidisciplinary team will include clinical staff, physicians, mangers, pharmacists, wound care experts to name a few.
Implementation, outcomes and evaluation: The project team will implement identified clinical practice changes based on the Facility Readiness Assessment to provide for a safe environment for patients and nursing staff. Measurable outcomes will support patient safety, quality of care, and patient/staff satisfaction. Evaluation of measurable outcomes will support the identified practice changes.
Implications for nursing practice: This best practice project supports practice changes to provide a safer environment for the obese pregnant patient population. It also supports our healthcare system vision to become a national leader recognized for clinical excellence.
Keywords: Assessment, Obesity, Pregnancy
