Postpartum Flashcards

Question

Homan’s Sign

Answer 1

* Pain in the calf indicates a positive Homan’s sign & potential thrombophlebitis * Ultrasound used to detect DVT

Answer 2

Positive clonus is observed if the foot appears to make a “beating” motion when let go

Answer 3

Immediately after delivery when the mother needs sleep depends on others for nurturing and food relives the events of the birth Nurturing and listening to the mother is most important during this phase.

Answer 4

mother begins to gain control over her bodily functions and becomes preoccupied with the present. She is concerned about her health, the baby’s condition and her ability to care for baby. Mother is ready for learning, so this is a most appropriate time for teaching. However, due to hormonal changes, role redefinition, discomfort and fatigue; the mother experiences mood swings, insomnia, irritability, and crying episodes. This period is usually temporary but should be monitored.

Answer 5

comes much later when the patient re-establishes relationships with other people. However, age, prior relationships and support factors may influence this phase. Postpartum blues: a normal time in which mother feels depressed and may cry. It is variable as to time it appears and how long it will last.

Answer 6

* Assess several times throughout hospital stay * Cluster nursing care * Encourage and allow for naps * Nursing interventions for discomfort to promote sleep

Answer 7

* Excessive continued fatigue * Marked depression * Excessive preoccupation with physical status or discomfort * Evidence of low self-esteem * Lack of support systems * Marital problems * Inability to care for or nurture the newborn * Current family crisis

Answer 8

* Tight-fitting sports bra continuously * Apply ice to breasts 20 min, four times/day * Avoid breast stimulation * Back to the shower * Lactation suppressed in about 5-7 days

Answer 9

o Mother's own milk o Hypoallergenic medical-grade anhydrous lanolin cream o Peppermint gel o Protective bra shells o Consult certified lactation consultant if nipple soreness persists o Begin nursing on the breast that is less sore o Analgesics may be taken approximately 1 hour before nursing

Answer 10

o Infant should suckle for an average of 15 minutes per feeding and should feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours o Mother may express milk manually or with a pump o Warm compresses before nursing o Cool compresses after nursing o Well-fitted nursing bra 24 hours a day

Answer 11

o Heat and massage o Warm compresses o Nurse infant starting on the unaffected breast if plugged breast is tender ▪ Some lactation consultants advocate starting on the affected side because the more vigorous sucking may help dislodge the plug ▪ Breast pump may be effective in unplugging the duct

Answer 12

o Frequent nursing o Variety of positions to ensure complete emptying o Pressure from purse strap, infant sling, or a car seat belt may cause recurring plugged ducts in the compressed area o Prevention and prompt correction are important because plugged ducts can lead to mastitis

Answer 13

o Breastfeeding mothers should not consume alcohol for at least 2 hours before nursing, and alcohol consumption should be limited to occasional use. o Consume alcohol after breastfeeding rather than before a feeding o Mothers with alcoholism who consume large quantities of alcohol daily may be advised not to breastfeed o Consult primary care provider before taking over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or herbal supplements

Answer 14

* Peri-bottle with warm water * Vaginal: no wiping, blot * Clean front to back * Change peripads every time go to the bathroom or saturation

Answer 15

• Ice pack immediately after delivery - rationale - reduce swelling and numb tissues - 20 min on, 10 min off for first 2 hours • Sitz bath - rationale - increases circulation, relaxes tissue to promote comfort, decreases edema; cool or warm water - 20 min, 3-4x/day * Topical anesthetic sprays or ointments (Dermoplast spray, Tucks pads, Witch Hazel) * Administration of analgesics * Teach client to “tighten buttocks” before sitting or shifting in bed to avoid direct trauma to perineum * Rest in lateral side-lying position * Encourage peri care * Teach diet high in Vitamin C & protein and adequate fluid intake to enhance wound healing

Answer 16

• Needs similar to other surgical pts. in addition to postpartal needs • May experience anger related to inability to have a vaginal birth o Guilt related to loss of fantasized birth, feelings of missing out, guilt over something she did wrong • Physical needs o Increased risk of pulmonary disease ▪ Encourage deep breathing, activity o Increased risk of blood clot formation ▪ Early ambulation o Increased discomfort with abdominal gas ▪ avoid carbonated beverages, straws, ice cold liquids, meds (simethicone) etc.

Postpartum Flashcards

(40 cards)