HIV disease and pregnancy. Part 2. Antepartum and intrapartum care.

The spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease among childbearing women presents a unique nursing challenge in the delivery of specialized antepartum and intrapartum care. The nurse must be competent in the delivery of psychosocial and physical care to these women, as well as assume a pivotal role as a member of the multidisciplinary health-care team. Aspects of care, from the diagnosis of pregnancy through delivery of the neonate, that are unique to women with HIV disease are described.