Case Study: Nevaeh – a teenage pregnancy

Nevaeh is a 17year female who has presented to the antenatal clinic with amenorrhea. She appeared stressed and was concerned that she may be pregnant. Upon questioning, she also advised that she had been suffering from severe headaches and had taken 2 x SOOmg paracetamol tablets just prior to arrival. Upon examination and ultrasound investigation, she was advised that she was 20 weeks pregnant. Preliminary blood and urine tests were carried out and support services were notified. She was scheduled to return to the clinic for counselling and further monitoring the following week. Her results were noted:

Physical examination:

Height
156 cm

Weight
54 kg

Appearance
Unclean, poorly nourished, anxious

Pregnancy status
Primigravida 20/52

Temperature
38.5 C

Blood Group
0

BP
138/87 mm Hg

Respiratory rate
22 bpm

Diet
Poor

Past patient history
N/A

Social status Urinalysis:
Living on street for past 6 months estranged from family, no partner

Blood
–

Bilirubin
–

Urobilinogen
0.2

Ketone
♦

Protein
♦++

Nitrite
–

Glucose
♦++

pH
7.5

Specific Gravity
1.015

Leucocytes
–

Question 3 (8 marks total)

What is gut motility? Is it likely that Nevaeh’s gut motility has increased or decreased during pregnancy? Discuss EITHER peristalsis OR segmentation in your response.
Why is it important for Nevaeh to maintain adequate protein intake? Discuss its importance in foetal development in your response.