Postpartum Problems 2

Question 1

What is postpartum sepsis?

Answer 1

maternal fever of >38 degrees in the first 14 days

Question 2

When is genital tract sepsis most common?

Answer 2

after a C-section

Question 3

What are the other causes of postpartum sepsis?

Answer 3

urinary infection 
chest infection 
mastitis 
perineal infection 
wound infection 
DVT

Question 4

What are the common pathogens causing postpartum sepsis?

Answer 4

group A streptococcus

staphylococcus + E.coli

Question 5

What are the clinical features of post partum sepsis?

Answer 5

lochia may be offensive

uterus is enlarged and tender

Question 6

How is postpartum sepsis managed?

Answer 6

examine abdomen, breasts, IV access, chest and legs

Bloods, urine, high vaginal fetal cultures taken

Give broad spectrum abx