Fetal abnormality

Question 1

What is A Fetal abnormality and reference?

Answer 1

anomalies that occur to fetus during intrauterine life which can be detected, prenatally, at birth or later on in infancy. (WHO,2016)

Question 2

How would a fetal abnormality be diagnosed in pregnancy?

Answer 2

1. Early scan at 12wks (Dating scan)
2. NIPT (Non- Invasive-Prenatal- Testing)- testing mum’s blood.
3. Central Villus sampling- Check if there are any genetic abnormalities by taking cells from placenta
4. Amniocentesis- Take sample of amniotic fluid
5. USS, following reduced fetal growth concern
6. Abnormality scan @20wks
7. @ time of fetal death

Question 3

Name 5 fetal abnormalities that may not be detected @ 23wks.

Answer 3

Dwarfism
Diphragm Herina 
Cleft palate 
Skin condition 
Oesophegeal- dudenal- anal- aterisa

Question 4

What should be examined within the 3rd trimester?

Answer 4

Growth- to exclude IUGR and macrosomia

Estimated fetal weight

Liquor Volume

Question 5

what reactions would the parents have in response to the fetal compromise?

Answer 5

• Anxiety
• Shock
• People dont understand scans
• Stress of the unknown and outcomes (other children)

Question 6

Parental needs after unexpected diagnosis?

Answer 6

prompt refer to a specialist and fetal medicine unit

sensitive communication

empathy

changing booking to a hospital that has NICU

Question 7

what happens when there is an unexpected diagnosis @ birth?

Answer 7

Tell parents respectfully
examine baby by pead ASAP
test baby with informed consent
Give accurate information