In addition to standard assessments, what should be frequently assessed in a woman with cardiovascular disease during labor?

In a woman with cardiovascular disease during labor, it is crucial to frequently assess lung sounds due to the increased risk of pulmonary complications. Cardiovascular disease can lead to heart failure or pulmonary edema, which can manifest as abnormal lung sounds such as crackles or wheezes. These signs indicate changes in the respiratory status that can signal deteriorating cardiac function or fluid overload. Monitoring lung sounds helps healthcare providers to intervene early and manage potential complications effectively, ensuring both maternal and fetal safety throughout labor.

While heart rate, blood pressure, and fetal heart rate are all important assessments during labor, they do not specifically address the immediate concerns related to a woman's cardiovascular status as directly as lung sounds do in this scenario. Given the unique risks associated with cardiovascular disease, lung auscultation provides critical information about the woman's condition and aids in prompt management of any issues that may arise.