Ectopic pregnancy: clinical evaluation, diagnostic measures and prevention

In recent years, the number of ectopic pregnancies in the United States has tripled, reaching epidemic proportions. This article reviews newly identified risk factors and procedures for clinical evaluation. It explains current diagnostic measures, including use of ultrasound technology and determination of serum human chorionic gonadotrophin levels. Differential diagnosis, clinical profiles, and updated medical and surgical treatments are described. Postoperative care is addressed, both from a physical and emotional standpoint. Prevention is discussed, and the role of the nurse practitioner in promoting women's health is outlined, including incorporation of tubal health histories into women's health care to more carefully identify women at risk for this complication of pregnancy.