ABSTRACT
Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a leading infectious cause of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Despite its prevalence and devastating consequences, there is limited public and professional awareness about it. This practice-focused article presents two stories describing the family experience of congenital CMV; a literature review describing incidence and epidemiology of congenital CMV; sequelae including infection; the extent of public awareness about congenital CMV; and risk reduction approaches. Implications for maternal-child nurses, whose work uniquely situates them with populations of childbearing women, are discussed.
Subject(s)
Cytomegalovirus Infections/congenital , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Maternal-Child Nursing/methods , Congenital Abnormalities/genetics , Congenital Abnormalities/pathology , Cytomegalovirus , Education, Nursing, Continuing , Female , Humans , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/statistics & numerical data , Perinatal Care/methods , Pregnancy , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/genetics , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/pathologyABSTRACT
OVERVIEW: Depending on her working environment, specific immunities, and stage of pregnancy, a pregnant nurse may find it difficult to avoid teratogenic and fetotoxic exposures, as well as working conditions that could jeopardize her pregnancy. A clinical review of the occupational hazards faced by pregnant nurses can be useful to the concerned nurse or health care system, as can suggestions on ways to reduce risk and a list of pertinent occupational safety resources.
