For the pregnant woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), there
is a potential for profound effects on perinatal outcome. Because SLE
is a multisystem disease, there are numerous effects on and nursing im
plications for the mother, the fetus, and the newborn that require ind
ividual case management. The article discusses SLE in pregnancy as wel
l as appropriate clinical management and therapeutic intervention to a
ssist the perinatal and neonatal nurse in caring for the mother, fetus
, and neonate.