NURS 4050 Analysis of Gestational Diabetes and Health Improvement Practices

 

Gestational Diabetes occurs due to a metabolic abnormality which is resulted because of an increase in the blood sugar level (Johns, 2018). This high blood sugar level may be due to multiple reasons including obesity, older age pregnancy, miscarriages in the past, and occurring Type I Diabetes in the patient. Gestational Diabetes can imply tons of physical changes in the patient. Some of the common variations which are observed in women suffering from Gestational Diabetes include extreme weight loss in the mother. As a result, women who develop Gestational Diabetes in pregnancy tend to have larger babies, usually 9 pounds or above, and may also have premature deliveries. 

In terms of the psychological and cultural implications which arise from Gestational Diabetes in women, multiple aspects are considered. Women with Gestational Diabetes tend to have increased liver metabolism and an unbalance hormonal level which may lead to psychological complexities such as stress induction, anxiety issues, and disturbed sleeping patterns. In terms of cultural implications, women with Gestational Diabetes are targeted in certain ethnic groups for the introduction of diabetes in the family tree. 

Although no definite cure for Gestational Diabetes is present so far, precautionary measures can substantially mitigate the adverse effects generated from this health condition. The health improvement practices which are already in the application include excessive physical activity and maintaining a certain weight limit before getting pregnant. For women with cases of older age pregnancy, a balanced diet acts as the key to regulating Gestational Diabetes. In worst-case scenarios, insulin injections and medications may be utilized to normalize blood sugar levels. Other health improvement practices in use include digesting 3 meals a day, substituting sugary intake, exercise, and intake of minerals and vitamins. 

Specific Goals to be Established for Care of Gestational Diabetes Patients 

Gestational Diabetes may not be curable, but it is preventable and can be regulated. It has been in existence since the early 1900s and precautionary measures can be adopted to restrict its development into Type II Diabetes. Certain goals and objectives need to be established as a part of the care coordination plan to ensure the timely treatment and care of the Gestational Diabetes patients. Some of the goals which need to be established for the care plan are given below:

  • Regularly monitor the blood sugar levels, in fasting and non-fasting conditions.
  • Avoid sugary intakes such as fruits, glucose, and carbonated drinks.
  • Conduct plenty of exercises and physical activity prior to pregnancy to mitigate the risk of Gestational Diabetes. 
  • Avoid strenuous exercise during pregnancy and avoid weight loss.
  • Maintain a 3 meal diet every day.
  • Consume a balanced diet consisting of 40% carbohydrates and 20% protein.
  • Consult your gynecologist after every 2 weeks to update you about your progress.
  • Limit fat intake to less than 40% and consume saturated fats in only 10% of the quantity.
  • In severe unbalance cases, strictly monitor insulin injections.
  • Only use diabetes medications under 500mg of dosage.
  • After the delivery, maintain your body weight.

These are some of the specified goals which can be implemented to ensure the regulation of Gestational Diabetes and from inhibiting it to develop into Type II Diabetes. The strict adherence to the goals in the care coordination plan will result in the well-being of the patient. 

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