Program

Nurse-Midwifery M.S.

Number of Pages

71

Year Approved

2024

First Advisor

Douglas, Taneesha

Second Reader

Katrina Wu

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital CMV can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, growth restriction, neurodevelopmental delay, and hearing/vision impairment. There is limited education on risk reduction and treatment options for infection. This integrative review examined original research to better inform providers on methods for reducing cCMV. Methods: Database searching in CINAHL, PubMed, and Nursing and Allied Health in January 2024 produced an initial 417 initial studies. Final extraction included 34 studies that met screening criteria for analysis. Results: Three relevant themes emerged: education, screening, and treatment. Messaging and education focused on risk reduction as most effective for behavioral changes. Maternal screening did not predict cCMV in low-risk women, it did diagnose early stage infections. Treatment closer to infection had better outcomes. The two main treatment options were 8g Valacyclovir daily and IV infusions of HIG-CMV at either 100 or 200 mu/kg. Valacyclovir research showed positive reductions in cCMV without adverse effects. While HIG-CMV using 100 mu/kg monthly did not see reductions in transmission and neonatal sequelae, 200 mu/kg weekly did see reductions in both. Discussion: cCMV is a serious health issue that is largely unknown and untreated. Education in a variety of forms is effective at increasing provider knowledge and reducing infection rates by influencing maternal behavior. Screening is complicated but is a tool to identify those at highest risk and diagnose infections to allow for treatment. Valacyclovir is a promising treatment option for infected mothers, as is 200 mg of IV infusion HIG therapy. It is time for providers to take the lead in educating themselves and their patients on adoptable prevention behaviors, and to use screening and possible treatment options as tools in reducing this disease.

Degree Name

M.S. Nurse-Midwifery

Document Type

Masterʼs thesis

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