Diabetes in Pregnancy
Course Description
Diabetes during pregnancy can provide a special challenge to the patient and her healthcare providers. The effects of poorly controlled blood glucose levels can result in life-threatening effects for both the mother and the fetus.
Purpose/GoalThe outcome of this course is for the learner to describe the types of diabetes, the metabolic changes that occur during diabetic pregnancies, and treatment options (including diet, exercise, and medication).
Course Objectives – Upon completion you will be able to do the following:
- Define diabetes and identify its scope in the United States.
- Identify the major health impacts of diabetes.
- Explain the role of hormones and other body chemicals on insulin production.
- Briefly describe the pathophysiology of diabetes.
- Identify the five main types of diabetes and describe their major characteristics.
- Describe the metabolic changes that occur in a normal pregnancy.
- Identify maternal complications from diabetes.
- Identify fetal and neonatal effects of diabetes.
- Describe the major characteristics of pregestational diabetes.
- Identify White’s main classifications of diabetes in pregnancy.
- Identify key components of screening and treatment for the patient with GDM.
- Describe general management techniques for the pregnant woman with diabetes, including diet, exercise, and medication therapies.
- Identify tests used to assess placental function and fetal well-being.
- Describe major management issues for the pregnant woman during the intrapartum, labor and delivery, and postpartum periods.
- Describe new therapies for the pregnant woman with diabetes, including oral hypoglycemic agents, insulin pump therapy, and islet cell transplantation.
CONTACT HOURS–3.0