The aim of this module is to facilitate students in the assessment, care and management of women experiencing at risk and complicated pregnancy.

Assessment, investigations and management of maternal and fetal well-being in women experiencing at risk and complicated pregnancy including maternal mortality and morbidity. Bleeding before the 24th week of pregnancy; other problems associated with early pregnancy including antenatal infection. Antepartum haemorrhage. Hepatic disorders. Abnormalities of the amniotic fluid. Medical conditions of significance: hypertensive disorders: endocrine disorders; cardiac disease; renal disease; respiratory disorders; haematological disorders, neurological disorders; incorporating medication management. Documentation including use of IMEOWS. Clinical skills: Principles of management of bleeding including basic life support measures Management of severe pre-eclampsia, fulminating pre-eclampsia and eclampsia including medication management Management of epileptic seizures Management of an asthmatic attack Management of blood sugar monitoring, hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia. Venepuncture Skills

On successful completion of this module students will be able to demonstrate the knowledge to respond appropriately to women with complex needs in pregnancy and childbirth in collaboration with other health care professionals. Relate the effects of pre-existing maternal medical conditions on the woman, fetus and baby.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to appreciate the psychosocial aspects of at risk and complicated pregnancy and childbirth for the woman and her family.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to demonstrate the skills to respond appropriately when care needs to be escalated during pregnancy or childbirth in collaboration with other health care professionals.

The student will participate in the learning experience through a variety of teaching and learning strategies: in particular the completion of case scenarios to explore specific and generic issues and the use of the virtual learning environment Students will also be expected to engage in self-directed study to supplement their learning. As a result of gaining a thorough understanding of assessment, care and management of women experiencing at risk and complicated pregnancy and the role and responsibilities of the midwife in providing woman-centred care the module aims to develop UL graduate attributes. Students will become more knowledgeable, responsible, proactive and collaborative in their approach to the care of women in childbirth. The students will be expected to demonstrate an awareness of how research findings impact on the provision of care to women with complex needs in pregnancy and childbirth in collaboration with other health care professionals. Relevant national and international reports will be incorporated and referenced in the delivery of the module.