Postpartum Fever Clinical Assessment
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Questions and Answers

What temperature indicates postpartum fever?

  • 38ºC on at least two occasions (correct)
  • Over 37.0ºC on one occasion
  • 38.5ºC once
  • 37.5ºC on at least two occasions
  • What is the expected change in the uterus's position after delivery?

  • Moves to the right side of the pelvis
  • Swells and stays at the same level
  • Descends rapidly to the pelvic floor
  • Firm at umbilicus, reducing by 1 cm daily (correct)
  • Which factor increases the risk of metritis after vaginal delivery?

  • Low maternal age
  • Short length of labor
  • Minimal cervical examinations
  • Prolonged labor (correct)
  • What is a normal finding in the healing of the perineum postpartum?

    <p>Mild edema and redness, well approximated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom suggests the possibility of an infection postpartum?

    <p>Malodorous discharge</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is expected regarding white blood cell levels immediately after birth?

    <p>Increase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is NOT a differential diagnosis for postpartum fever?

    <p>Chest pneumonia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might a mild temperature increase occur on days 2-3 postpartum?

    <p>Start of milk production</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common assessment tool for identifying infections in a hospital setting postpartum?

    <p>CBC (Complete Blood Count)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions may elevate the risk for chorioamnionitis?

    <p>Multiple cervical examinations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms is most indicative of mastitis?

    <p>Localized breast tenderness with erythema</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is commonly associated with a pelvic infection in the postpartum period?

    <p>Fevers ≥39°C within the first 24 hours</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What treatment is first-line for mastitis?

    <p>Cephalexin 500 mg QID x7-10 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom differentiates acute pyelonephritis from a regular urinary tract infection?

    <p>Chills and fever</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary management strategy for dehydration postpartum?

    <p>Intravenous hydration and rest</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which bacteria is commonly associated with mastitis?

    <p>Staphylococcus aureus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A post cesarean patient experiencing respiratory complications may be at risk for which of the following?

    <p>Pelvic infection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is NOT a symptom of endometritis?

    <p>Severe headache</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common result of incorrect attachment of the baby to the breast?

    <p>Mastitis due to nipple trauma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT typically included in the treatment plan for an acute urinary tract infection?

    <p>Warm compresses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended frequency for breastfeeding a term and healthy baby?

    <p>At least 8 times a day</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a mother do if her baby cannot fully empty her breasts?

    <p>Pump every 3 hours</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a sign that a baby is getting enough food?

    <p>Gaining weight</p> Signup and view all the answers

    To build and maintain milk supply, what is the target amount of breastmilk by the end of the first week?

    <p>500 ml</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an appropriate way to wake a sleeping baby for breastfeeding?

    <p>Changing the baby's diaper while talking</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to stool frequency in a baby after the first month of life?

    <p>Stools may not be as frequent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the optimal daily total of breastmilk by weeks 2 or 3?

    <p>800 ml</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can mothers gradually reduce pumping during breastfeeding?

    <p>By monitoring baby's weight and output</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a breastfeeding crisis or growth spurt primarily characterized by?

    <p>An increase in the baby's physical development and milk demand.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a late sign of hunger in a baby?

    <p>Crying</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should mothers do during the early days postpartum to support breastfeeding?

    <p>Seek help for household tasks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what ages are growth spurts most commonly expected in infants?

    <p>10 days, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should reassure a mother that breastfeeding is going well during growth spurts?

    <p>Breastfeeding is comfortable, and the baby has a good latch.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What misconception may arise during a breastfeeding crisis?

    <p>The mother may think her milk supply is low, leading to perceived insufficient milk supply (PMIS).</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do growth spurts benefit milk production?

    <p>They stimulate the mother's body to produce more milk through increased demand.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an effect of introducing supplementary fluids or foods during perceived insufficient milk supply?

    <p>It may create negative feedback on milk production and lower actual supply.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which sign indicates that a breastfeeding baby is likely content during growth spurts?

    <p>The baby continues to nurse frequently and appears satisfied.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might mothers mistakenly think they have a low milk supply during growth spurts?

    <p>The feeding schedule appears to change unexpectedly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What behavior should mothers avoid when they suspect a breastfeeding crisis?

    <p>Introducing formula or other supplements unnecessarily.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary way to increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers?

    <p>Removing milk frequently from the breast</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should mothers consider if they notice sore, cracked nipples while breastfeeding?

    <p>Consult a healthcare provider for help</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can skin-to-skin contact benefit a breastfeeding mother and her baby?

    <p>It calms a fussy baby and stimulates feeding interest</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a good indicator that an infant is receiving enough milk?

    <p>The number of diapers the baby uses daily</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important for breastfeeding mothers to ensure an effective latch?

    <p>To allow the baby to swallow frequently and signal milk transfer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which foods are commonly considered galactagogues to promote milk production?

    <p>Oatmeal, dark leafy greens, and nuts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might be a side effect of taking domperidone for milk production?

    <p>Dry mouth, headaches, and dizziness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended frequency of breastfeeding during the early weeks for optimal milk production?

    <p>8-12 times a day, including nights</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of supplementation with formula on a mother's milk supply?

    <p>It may further decline her milk supply</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action if there is no increase in milk production by day five postpartum?

    <p>Consult a healthcare provider</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Postpartum Fever

    • Definition: Body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) on at least two occasions.

    History Taking and Clinical Assessment

    • Vital Signs: Temperature range 36.5-37.5°C, heart rate 60-100 bpm, blood pressure 100/60-140/90 mmHg.
    • Pain and Comfort: Mild afterpains, pain at perineal trauma site, abdominal pain.
    • Uterus: Firm at umbilicus, reducing by 1 cm daily, non-tender. Retained placenta is a possibility.
    • Bleeding/Discharge: Non-malodorous, reducing lochia (from rubra to serosa).
    • Wound Healing: Perineum: mild edema and redness, well-approximated; incision: dry, intact, no discharge;
    • Bladder and Bowel function, genitourinary tract: Mild urinary incontinence, delayed bowel.
    • Breasts and Nipples: Minor temperature elevation possible during milk production (day 2-3 postpartum), but rarely exceeding 38°C.
    • Specific Questions for Client: Chills, dysuria, flank pain, erythema, wound drainage, respiratory issues, perineal/abdominal pain, foul-smelling discharge, breast engorgement.

    Potential Infections Timeline and Risk Factors

    • Infection Risk Increases: Varies depending on the infection; some more likely in the first 24 hours (potentially serious pelvic infection).
    • White Blood Cells: Expected increase at birth.
    • Diagnostic Testing: Complete blood count (CBC) useful in hospital setting, but not always necessary outside.
    • Delivery Route: Vaginal delivery increases risk for metritis and perineal infection; Cesarean section also carries risks.
    • Labor Duration: Prolonged labor increases metritis risk.
    • ROM Duration: >24hrs increases risk.
    • Cervical Examinations: Increased frequency of examinations increases risk of infection.
    • Fetal Monitoring: Internal fetal monitoring increases risk.
    • Socioeconomic Factors may contribute.
    • Maternal Age: Young maternal age is a risk factor.
    • Nulliparity: First-time mothers are at higher risk.
    • Labor Induction: Prolonged labor induction increases risk.
    • Chorionamnionitis (Chorioamnionitis): Potential risk.
    • Obesity: Increased risk.
    • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) status: Important factor.
    • Meconium Stained Amniotic Fluid: Indicative of potential fetal distress.
    • Placental conditions: Assess properly.

    Differential Diagnoses

    • Intrauterine Infections: Endometritis, endomyometritis, and parametrite are possible.

    • Breast Infections: Breast engorgement is common postpartum (particularly with non-breastfeeding); mastitis.

    • Mastitis: Inflammation of the breast caused by milk stasis. Redness, tenderness, flu-like symptoms (fatigue, headache, muscle aches), fever, chills likely.

    • Urinary Infection/Acute Pyelonephritis: Associated with normal postpartum diuresis.

    • Perineal/Wound Infections: Episiotomies, lacerations, incision sites are common sites for infection (especially MRSA).

    • Pelvic Infection: Vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes infections are possible, especially with high fever (>39°C) in first 24 hours, potentially severe (Streptococcus group A).

    • Dehydration: Fever with headaches, fatigue; treated with oral/IV hydration, analgesics, and rest.

    Treatment and Management

    • Mastitis (S. Aureus): Symptoms include breast tenderness, erythema, flu-like symptoms, fever.
      • Treatment: Frequent breastfeeding/pumping for affected breast, warm compresses, over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, fluids, antibiotics (Cephalexin, Cloxacillin, Clindamycin, Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid) if symptoms persist.
    • Acute UTI/Pyelonephritis: Symptoms: pelvic pressure, dysuria, pyrexia, chills, malaise.
      • Treatment: Antibiotics, anti-pyretics, hydration, increased urination (frequent urination).
    • Postpartum Wound Infection (perineal or C-section): Symptoms:
      • Treatment: Antibiotics, anti-pyretics, hydration, open air.
    • Endometritis: Symptoms: tender, soft, subinvoluted uterus, chills, malaise, foul-smelling lochia.
      • Treatment: Antibiotics, anti-pyretics, hydration.
    • Dehydration: Symptoms: headache, fatigue.
      • Treatment: Oral/IV hydration, analgesics, rest.

    Important Diagnostics

    • CBC (Complete Blood Count): May indicate leukocytosis (15,000-30,000 cells/µL).
    • Other Lab Tests: Cytokines (interleukins, lymphokines), lactoferrin, and sIgA levels may also be evaluated.

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    Description

    This quiz covers the clinical assessment and history taking for postpartum fever. It includes vital signs, pain management, and evaluations of the uterus, bleeding, and wound healing. Test your knowledge on recognizing and addressing complications in the postpartum period.

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