Infections in pregnant women: the need to assess and possibly treat the fetus and the sexual partner as well.

Assessing and treating pregnant women in the emergency department for complaints unrelated to pregnancy are complex processes at best. Obtaining a consultation from an obstetrician is always prudent, even if it is simply by telephone. Careful attention to laboratory and other diagnostic test results is imperative, and communication with the patient's primary care physician and/or obstetrician is a must. Assessment of fetal well-being should be documented, and implications for the fetus of all treatments and/or omitted treatments should be considered. With infections in pregnant women, remember to think about implications for the baby and the woman's sexual partner; both may need to be assessed and treated.