Postpartum Complications

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary characteristic of uterine atony that contributes to early postpartum hemorrhage (PPH)?

  • A soft, boggy uterus (correct)
  • A uterus with multiple fibroids
  • An inverted uterus
  • A rigid, contracted uterus

Which of the following factors increases the risk of retained placental fragments leading to late postpartum hemorrhage?

  • Spontaneous vaginal delivery
  • Manual removal of the placenta (correct)
  • Elective induction of labor
  • Use of vacuum extraction during delivery

A postpartum patient is experiencing excessive bleeding. After uterine massage and initial uterotonic administration, what is the next most appropriate intervention a nurse should anticipate?

  • Preparing for immediate hysterectomy
  • Initiating blood transfusions
  • Administering a second dose of the same uterotonic
  • Bimanual compression of the uterus (correct)

What condition is most associated with triggering disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) as a cause of postpartum hemorrhage?

<p>Placental abruption (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following findings would be most indicative of endometritis in a postpartum patient?

<p>Foul-smelling lochia, fever, and uterine tenderness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum patient develops a wound infection after a cesarean birth. What factor in her history most likely contributed to this complication?

<p>Maternal obesity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What intervention is most important for a breastfeeding mother diagnosed with mastitis?

<p>Frequent breastfeeding or pumping to empty the breasts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with a postpartum UTI. Which of the following antepartum factors most likely contributed to its development?

<p>Use of indwelling urinary catheter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum patient reports pain, swelling, and redness in her left calf. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

<p>Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum patient suddenly experiences dyspnea, chest pain, and hemoptysis. What immediate intervention should the nurse prepare for?

<p>Anticoagulation therapy with heparin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is most responsible for the increased risk of thromboembolic disorders in the postpartum period?

<p>Pregnancy-related hypercoagulability (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides pharmacological interventions, what non-pharmacological intervention can improve venous return in a postpartum patient diagnosed with DVT?

<p>Elevation of the affected extremity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum patient reports feeling tearful, anxious, and irritable two days after delivery. What condition is she most likely experiencing?

<p>Postpartum blues (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is most indicative of postpartum depression (PPD) rather than postpartum blues?

<p>Feelings of worthlessness or guilt (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which pre-existing condition places a woman at the highest risk for developing postpartum psychosis?

<p>History of bipolar disorder (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the priority nursing intervention for a postpartum patient exhibiting signs of postpartum psychosis?

<p>Ensuring safety and monitoring for suicidal ideation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does maternal role attainment primarily refer to in the context of postpartum psychological adaptation?

<p>The development of confidence and competence in the role of a mother (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention best supports the development of attachment between a mother and her newborn infant?

<p>Encouraging skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of psychological adaptation to the postpartum period?

<p>Significant emotional, social, and cognitive adjustments (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A first-time mother expresses anxiety about caring for her newborn. What intervention would best promote her confidence and competence?

<p>Providing education and support tailored to her specific concerns (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following a vaginal delivery complicated by a third-degree perineal laceration, which of the following nursing interventions is most important in preventing infection?

<p>Educating the patient on meticulous perineal hygiene (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client who had a cesarean birth reports increasing pain, redness, and purulent drainage at the incision site four days postpartum. Her temperature is 101.5°F (38.6°C). Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?

<p>Notify the healthcare provider of the client's signs and symptoms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A breastfeeding mother develops mastitis. She is concerned about the safety of breastfeeding while having an infection. Which of the following statements is the most appropriate response by the nurse?

<p>&quot;You can continue breastfeeding, and it may actually help clear the infection. Ensure you empty the breast completely.&quot; (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client, who is 12 hours post-delivery, reports severe pain and swelling in her left calf. What initial action should the nurse take?

<p>Elevate the leg and notify the physician immediately (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum woman, 3 days after delivery, reports feeling overwhelmed, sad, and anxious. She states, "I don't know why I'm crying all the time." Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate?

<p>Encourage her to verbalize her feelings and provide information about postpartum blues (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum patient is being discharged after a cesarean section. Which of the following instructions is most important to include in her discharge teaching to prevent complications related to thromboembolism?

<p>Maintain adequate hydration and ambulate frequently (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client with a history of postpartum depression (PPD) is being seen in the clinic for her 6-week follow-up visit. She reports feeling increasingly hopeless and having thoughts of harming herself. What is the priority nursing action?

<p>Immediately assess her risk for suicide and ensure her safety (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a postpartum client experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding. After notifying the healthcare provider, which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

<p>Massage the uterine fundus (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client who delivered vaginally 24 hours ago reports intense perineal pain despite the use of ice packs and analgesics. On assessment, the nurse notes a firm, hot, and exquisitely tender mass on the client’s perineum. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect?

<p>Hematoma (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a postpartum client who had a cesarean section. Which of the following instructions is most important to prevent wound infection?

<p>Keep the incision clean and dry (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client develops a urinary tract infection (UTI). Which of the following factors in her history is most likely associated with the development of a UTI?

<p>Use of an indwelling urinary catheter (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is assessing a postpartum client and notes the following: temperature of 101.0°F (38.3°C), tachycardia, uterine tenderness, and foul-smelling lochia. Which postpartum complication is most likely indicated by these findings?

<p>Endometritis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client reports feeling increasingly anxious, irritable, and having difficulty sleeping, three weeks after delivery. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect?

<p>Postpartum depression (PPD) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum patient is prescribed methylergonovine for postpartum hemorrhage. Which condition in the patient's history would be a contraindication for the administration of methylergonovine?

<p>Hypertension (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client is diagnosed with postpartum psychosis. Which intervention is the highest priority for this client?

<p>Ensuring the client's safety and monitoring for suicidal or infanticidal ideation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most important factor in promoting early attachment between a mother and her newborn?

<p>Encouraging early and frequent skin-to-skin contact (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After a difficult and prolonged labor, a multiparous woman develops a postpartum hemorrhage. Despite fundal massage and administration of oxytocin, the bleeding continues. What should the nurse do next?

<p>Administer misoprostol rectally (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum woman who is breastfeeding reports a sudden onset of flu-like symptoms, along with localized breast pain, redness, and warmth. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate?

<p>Encourage frequent breastfeeding and administer antibiotics, as prescribed (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client is 24 hours postpartum and complains of severe perineal pain. Assessment reveals significant swelling and bruising of the perineum. The client's hemoglobin level is 9 g/dL, and she reports feeling dizzy when she stands. What intervention is the priority?

<p>Monitoring for signs of hypovolemic shock and preparing for a possible blood transfusion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a postpartum home visit, a nurse finds the new mother tearful and anxious. She states, "I don't feel like myself, and I'm so tired all the time." Her infant is healthy and feeding well. What action should the nurse take first?

<p>Use a standardized screening tool to assess the mother for postpartum depression (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client who delivered by cesarean section is at increased risk for developing which of the following complications?

<p>Wound infection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A postpartum client is diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate administering?

<p>Warfarin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Postpartum complications

Physical and psychological issues after childbirth impacting maternal health.

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)

Blood loss >500 mL after vaginal birth or >1,000 mL after cesarean.

Uterine atony

Soft, boggy uterus after delivery.

Risk factors for uterine atony

Overdistended uterus, multiparity, or rapid labor.

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Genital tract lacerations

Tears in cervix, vagina, or perineum during delivery.

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Risk factors for genital lacerations

Rapid labor or operative vaginal delivery.

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Retained placental fragments

Placental fragments remain in the uterus.

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Risk factors for retained fragments

Manual removal of placenta or placenta accreta.

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Coagulation disorders

DIC or Von Willebrand disease.

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Interventions for PPH

Uterine massage and uterotonic medications.

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Postpartum Infections

Infection of the uterus, perineum, or breasts.

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Endometritis

Infection of the uterine lining.

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Risk factors for endometritis

Prolonged labor or rupture of membranes.

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Cesarean wound infection

Redness, swelling, drainage at incision.

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Risk factors for mastitis

Nipple trauma or infrequent emptying.

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Interventions for postpartum infections

Antibiotics and wound care.

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Thromboembolic Disorders

DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE).

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Risk factors for thromboembolism

Pregnancy-related hypercoagulability and venous stasis.

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Symptoms of DVT

Pain, swelling, redness in leg or pelvis.

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Symptoms of PE

Sudden dyspnea, chest pain, cough.

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Interventions for thromboembolism

Anticoagulation therapy.

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Postpartum Psychiatric Disorders

Mood & anxiety disorders after childbirth.

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Postpartum blues

Transient mood changes resolving in weeks.

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Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Depressed mood lasting longer, impairing function.

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Postpartum psychosis

Hallucinations, delusions and bizarre behavior.

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Risk factors for postpartum psychiatric disorders

History of mental illness, stressful events.

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Interventions for postpartum psychiatric disorders

Emotional support and mental health referral.

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Psychological adaptation

Emotional, social, and cognitive adjustments.

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Attachment

Emotional bond between mother and infant.

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Maternal role attainment

Mother develops confidence as a mother.

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Interventions for psychological adaptation

Education, skin-to-skin contact, support groups.

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Study Notes

  • Postpartum complications encompass physical and psychological challenges that can arise after childbirth.
  • These complications impact the mother's health and well-being.
  • Prompt identification and management of complications ensures positive maternal outcomes.

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)

  • PPH is blood loss of more than 500 mL after a vaginal birth, or more than 1,000 mL after a cesarean birth.
  • Early PPH occurs within the first 24 hours postpartum.
  • Late PPH occurs from 24 hours to 12 weeks postpartum.
  • Uterine atony, characterized by a soft, boggy uterus, is a primary cause of early PPH.
  • Risk factors for uterine atony include: overdistended uterus, multiparity, prolonged or rapid labor, and medications like magnesium sulfate or oxytocin.
  • Lacerations of the genital tract, including the cervix, vagina, or perineum, can lead to PPH.
  • Rapid or precipitous labor, operative vaginal delivery, and fetal macrosomia increase the risk of lacerations.
  • Retained placental fragments can interfere with uterine contraction and cause late PPH.
  • Manual removal of the placenta, placenta accreta, and succenturiate lobe of the placenta increase the risk of retained placental fragments.
  • Coagulation disorders like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or pre-existing conditions like Von Willebrand disease can contribute to PPH.
  • DIC can be triggered by placental abruption, amniotic fluid embolism, or severe preeclampsia.
  • PPH detection involves monitoring vital signs, assessing uterine tone, and estimating blood loss.
  • Interventions for PPH aim to control bleeding and restore hemodynamic stability.
  • Uterine massage, uterotonic medications (oxytocin, misoprostol, methylergonovine, carboprost), and bimanual compression can help contract the uterus.
  • Laceration repair may be necessary to control bleeding from tears.
  • Manual exploration of the uterus or dilation and curettage (D&C) may be required for retained placental fragments.
  • Blood transfusions and clotting factors may be necessary for blood loss and coagulation abnormalities.

Postpartum Infections

  • Postpartum infections can affect the uterus (endometritis), perineum, wound (cesarean incision or episiotomy), urinary tract (UTI), and breasts (mastitis).
  • Endometritis, a uterine lining infection, is more common after cesarean birth.
  • Prolonged labor, prolonged rupture of membranes, and multiple vaginal examinations increase endometritis risk.
  • Perineal wound infections can occur after episiotomy or laceration repair.
  • Risk factors include poor perineal hygiene, trauma during delivery, and compromised immune status.
  • Cesarean wound infections manifest as redness, swelling, drainage, and pain at the incision site.
  • Obesity, diabetes, and prolonged labor increase the risk of cesarean wound infections.
  • UTIs are common postpartum due to urinary catheterization, bladder trauma, and postpartum diuresis.
  • Mastitis, a breast tissue infection, usually occurs in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Risk factors include nipple trauma, infrequent emptying of the breasts, and blocked milk ducts.
  • Assess for infection signs/symptoms: fever, chills, pain, redness, swelling, drainage, and foul-smelling lochia.
  • Interventions for postpartum infections include: Antibiotic therapy, wound care, pain management, and comfort measures.
  • Wound care includes cleansing, irrigation, and dressing changes.
  • Comfort measures include sitz baths, ice packs, and breast support.
  • Education on hygiene practices helps prevent further infection.
  • For mastitis, encourage frequent breastfeeding or pumping; consider antibiotics if symptoms persist.

Thromboembolic Disorders

  • Thromboembolic disorders, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), are potential postpartum complications.
  • Pregnancy-related hypercoagulability, venous stasis, and vascular damage during delivery increase thromboembolism risk.
  • DVT typically affects the deep veins of the legs or pelvis.
  • DVT symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected extremity.
  • PE occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, obstructing pulmonary blood flow.
  • PE symptoms include sudden dyspnea, chest pain, cough, and hemoptysis.
  • Risk factors for thromboembolic disorders: cesarean birth, obesity, immobility, history of thromboembolism, and certain medical conditions.
  • Assess for signs/symptoms of DVT and PE.
  • Interventions include: Anticoagulation therapy, thrombolytic therapy, compression stockings, and elevation of the affected extremity.
  • Anticoagulation therapy uses heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) to prevent clot formation.
  • Thrombolytic therapy may be necessary in severe PE cases.
  • Compression stockings promote venous return.
  • Elevating the affected extremity reduces swelling.
  • Monitor for bleeding complications associated with anticoagulation therapy.

Postpartum Psychiatric Disorders

  • Postpartum psychiatric disorders include postpartum blues, postpartum depression (PPD), and postpartum psychosis.
  • Postpartum blues involve mood lability, tearfulness, and anxiety, typically resolving within a few weeks postpartum.
  • Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and adjustment to new motherhood contribute to postpartum blues.
  • Postpartum depression (PPD) is a more severe and persistent mood disorder that can interfere with function.
  • PPD symptoms include: depressed mood, loss of interest, changes in appetite/sleep, fatigue, worthlessness/guilt, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal ideation.
  • Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious psychiatric emergency with hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and bizarre behavior.
  • Women with a history of bipolar disorder or psychosis are at higher risk for postpartum psychosis.
  • Risk factors for postpartum psychiatric disorders: history of mental illness, previous PPD, stressful life events, lack of social support, and complications during pregnancy/childbirth.
  • Assess for symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders.
  • Interventions include: emotional support, rest, nutrition, exercise, and referral to mental health professionals.
  • Mental health referrals are for counseling, therapy, and medication management.
  • Monitoring for suicidal ideation and ensuring safety is crucial.
  • Hospitalization may be necessary for severe PPD or postpartum psychosis.

Psychological adaptation

  • Psychological adaptation to the postpartum period involves emotional, social, and cognitive adjustments.
  • Becoming a mother brings changes in identity, roles, and relationships.
  • Adaptation to new responsibilities and expectations is required.
  • Attachment is the process by which a mother develops a strong emotional bond.
  • Attachment fosters a sense of love and connection.
  • Factors influencing attachment include maternal-infant interaction, temperament, and cultural beliefs.
  • Maternal role attainment refers to confidence and competence in the role of a mother.
  • Factors influencing maternal role attainment include social support, self-esteem, and previous experience with childcare.
  • Assessment includes maternal adaptation, attachment behaviors, and maternal role attainment
  • Interventions include: education, support, skin-to-skin contact, early breastfeeding, and opportunities for bonding.
  • Guidance is offered on infant care, feeding, and sleep patterns.
  • Connecting mothers with support groups and resources addresses challenges and promotes well-being.

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