Psychosocial needs of the critically ill obstetric patient: the nurse's role

A critically ill obstetric patient can present a challenging and rewarding experience for the nurse who is accustomed to caring for the typical intensive care unit patient. This patient population makes up a small percentage of the average daily census in adult critical care units across the country. The patient population accounts for less than 2% of admissions in the developed countries, and these patients experience a very low mortality rate. This article will describe those psychosocial needs and address the nurse's role in meeting the needs. A case study will be presented to provide specific points for focus.