How can I effectively manage the anxiety of a patient diagnosed with placenta praevia while ensuring they understand their condition?

Effectively managing anxiety in a patient diagnosed with placenta praevia involves clear communication, emotional support, and ensuring understanding of the condition and its management.

First, provide the patient with tailored, evidence-based information about placenta praevia, including the nature of the condition, potential risks such as bleeding, and the importance of monitoring and hospital admission if bleeding occurs. Use simple language and confirm understanding by inviting questions and using teach-back methods.

Second, involve the patient in care planning and decision-making, explaining the rationale for any recommended interventions such as planned caesarean birth, which is often necessary to reduce risks associated with placenta praevia. Discuss birth options and what to expect during delivery and postpartum care, including the possibility of blood transfusion and the presence of a multidisciplinary team if needed.

Third, provide emotional support by acknowledging the patient’s anxiety, offering reassurance about the close monitoring and specialist care available, and referring to specialist services or counselling if anxiety persists or worsens.

Finally, ensure the patient knows how to access emergency care promptly if symptoms such as bleeding worsen, and provide contact information for support services.

This approach aligns with NICE recommendations on antenatal care, caesarean birth planning, and postnatal support, emphasizing individualized information, multidisciplinary involvement, and psychological support.