A pregnant woman has been brought to the emergency department by the rescue squad with symptoms of heat exhaustion after competing in an outdoor race on a hot day

Question

Before discharge, the nurse teaches about appropriate exercise during pregnancy. The husband asks if the woman's having heat exhaustion will harm the baby. Which response by the nurse is most accurate?
A.
"Definitely; that's why pregnant women should not do aerobic exercise."
B.
"Fetal temperature depends on mom's temperature, so the fetus may be affected."
C.
"The baby is in a fluid environment and won't get overheated."
D.
"Yes, but if we rapidly cool mom down, there won't be any problems."

Answer 1

ANS: B
The fetus is unable to reduce body temperature through perspiration or other means and instead must rely on the mother's body for temperature regulation. Possible complications of maternal hyperthermia include spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, and fetal distress. The nurse should educate the couple about exercise that won't increase the maternal temperature too much. Complications are possible, not definite; the baby being in a fluid environment does not regulate its temperature, and women who are pregnant can engage in aerobic activity following safety guidelines.