Introduction: Pregnant women have a fivefold increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, which are referred to collectively as venous thromboembolism. The risk of developing venous thromboembolism is present from the first trimester and up to 4 - 6 weeks after delivery. Deep venous thrombosis is potentially, and pulmonary embolism is definitely life-threatening for mother and child. Purpose: The purpose of the diploma thesis was to investigate the role of midwives in the medical treatment and medical education of women with venous thromboembolism based on a literature review. The aim of the thesis was to carry out a systematic review of the professional literature on the mentioned topic. Work methods: A descriptive work method was used with a review and analysis of professional and scientific English and Slovenian literature. The literature search took place from April 2020 to May 2023. The literature was searched in the following databases: MedLine, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, ProQuest and Wiley Online Library. We also searched for literature in the Google books search engine. The literature search was limited to the period from 2010 to 2023 inclusive. Results: In Slovenia, 3,000 people fall ill with venous thrombosis annually. Making a diagnosis during pregnancy is difficult because the signs and symptoms of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are similar to pregnancy symptoms. We are limited in diagnosis because diagnostic tools have not been tested on pregnant women, and we must also avoid radiation. For the treatment of venous thromboembolism, anticoagulant drugs are used during pregnancy and after childbirth, which do not pass through the placenta or into breast milk. Discussion and conclusion: Public awareness, including pregnant and parturient women, about acute venous thromboembolism is very low compared to other diseases. Greater awareness can be achieved with various educational materials (videos, websites, smartphone applications, leaflets...) and with direct education (lectures, individual consultations). Nurses and midwives educate pregnant women and women in labor about the symptoms and signs of venous thromboembolism and when and how to seek medical help. Pregnant and parturient women receiving anticoagulation drugs are advised about anticoagulant treatment, side effects, interactions with other drugs, food and alcohol, and lifestyle adjustments during anticoagulation treatment (sports, travel). During pregnancy, by promoting health, nurses and midwives can also motivate women to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
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