Nurse’s Role in Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Procedures During Pregnancy

Performing gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and invasive procedures in pregnancy may be risky because the fetus is sensitive to maternal hypoxia and hypotension. Another risk factor is teratogenicity of the drugs administered to the mother and/or ionizing radiation being exposed. However, when therapeutic interventions are necessary, endoscopy may be a safer option than radiological and surgical interventions. Careful assessment of both the benefi ts and the risks of endoscopy, close monitoring and follow-up of the mother and the fetus before, during and after the procedure is important. In this article, effects of endoscopy on pregnant women and their fetuses are investigated and points to be considered are noted.