Abdomen Flashcards
Give a general description of the abdomen
Lies between the diaphragm and the pelvic inlet
Largest cavity in the body
Houses most of the organs in the digestive system
Protected by muscular walls, diaphragm and muscles of the pelvis
Peritoneum lines the abdominopelvic cavity
What are the 4 quadrants of the abdomen?
Right upper quadrant
Right lower quadrant
Left upper quadrant
Left lower quadrant
What are the 9 regions of the abdomen?
Right hypochondriac Epigastric Left hypochondriac Right lumbar Umbilical Left lumbar Right iliac Hypogastric Left iliac
What is diastasis recti?
Separation of the abdominal muscles
What is a pendulous abdomen?
Usually seen in multiparous women
Use of support belt
Predisposition for malpresentation
Exercises
Outline postural changes in pregnancy
Centre of amity moves forward Abdominal muscles strech Hollowing of lumbar spine Lead to backache Ligaments around pubic joint soften
What is the rationale for abdominal examination in pregnancy?
Observe for signs of pregnancy
Method of assessing growth and wellbeing of fetus
Identify fetus position and presentation
Detect deviation from normal
Reassure and inform women
Forms part of the complete antenatal examination
What are the indications for an abdominal examination
Part of antenatal visit Admission to hospital Daily if inpatient Prior to diagnostic test Prior to vaginal examination Prior to auscultation of fetal heart
What are the contraindications for abdominal palpation?
Cautiously with- Abdominal pain Pre term labour Placental abruption Can cause uterus to contract
Outline considerations for any abdominal palpation
Consent Dignity Explanations Comfort Cultural sensitivity Empty bladder
What is the linea nigra?
Midline of abdomen (linea alba) Becomes markedly pigmented to a brownish blackish colour
What are straie gravidarum?
Reddish, slightly depressed streaks commonly developed in the skin of the abdomin and sometimes over the skin on the breasts
Stretch marks from growing fetus
Why might fundal height not be consistent with dates?
Inaccurate dates Large fetus Small fetus Abnormal lie Intrauterine death Cysts or fibroids in uterus Long abdomen
