Clinical advances in the management of severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy

The nutritional status of the woman with hyperemesis of pregnancy has been compromised by decreased food intake and increased nutrient loss. Depending on the severity of symptoms, interventions may begin with dietary and life-style alterations, proceed to oral nutritional supplementation or pharmacologic preparations, and continue on to intravenous vitamin-mineral therapy and either enteral tube feedings, parenteral nutrition, or both. These therapies, and the role of the nurse in initiating or supporting them, are described.