Providing essential knowledge for today's maternal-newborn nursing practice, the new 3rd edition of this practical reference walks readers through the nursing considerations associated with every stage of pregnancy and childbirth. Presented in a concise, outline format, it's also ideal as a study guide for those wishing to prepare for certification examinations in maternal-newborn nursing. Presents a concise, outline format with access to important nursing considerations associated with every stage of pregnancy and childbirth. Includes case studies and review questions that test the readers' knowledge and understanding of content. Provides all of the necessary information to prepare for the maternal-newborn certification examination. Offers greater integration of genetics information such as the Human Genome Project. Emphasizes competencies for practitioners, including genetic counseling. Features updated information on the classifications for diabetes and hypertensive disorders. Provides a culturally-diverse perspective on nursing care and care considerations. Incorporates discussions of environmental effects and influences on the care of the mother and newborn. Presents a reorganized newborn complications unit that focuses on the developmental changes affecting the newborn.