Bladder distension Flashcards
What is bladder distension and why is it significant in the postpartum period?
Bladder distension can impact uterine contraction and postpartum recovery.
What are the causes of bladder distension postpartum?
- Anesthesia or analgesia
- Perineal trauma
- Hormonal changes
- Psychological factors
How can anesthesia during labor contribute to bladder distension?
It can impair sensation, leading to reduced signals for bladder fullness.
What role does perineal trauma play in bladder distension?
It can inhibit the urge to void or make urination uncomfortable.
What hormonal changes can affect bladder function postpartum?
Fluctuations in hormones can impact bladder function and diuresis.
How can psychological factors contribute to bladder distension?
Stress or anxiety can lead to difficulty voiding.
What are potential complications of bladder distension?
- Uterine atony and postpartum hemorrhage
- Urinary retention
- Infection
How does a full bladder cause uterine atony?
It can displace the uterus upward and to the side, preventing effective contraction.
What is urinary retention and how is it related to bladder distension?
Inability to void can lead to overdistension, affecting bladder function.
What symptoms indicate bladder distension?
- Infrequent voiding
- Palpable bladder above the pubic symphysis
- Abdominal discomfort
- Heightened lochia flow
What management strategies can help with bladder distension?
- Encourage voiding every 2-3 hours
- Positioning and techniques to facilitate urination
- Pain management
- Bladder scanning
- Catheterization if necessary
- Monitoring for infection
What techniques can be used to encourage urination?
- Ensure privacy
- Sit upright
- Running water or warm water on hands
What role does pain management play in addressing bladder distension?
Providing analgesics for perineal pain can reduce discomfort affecting urination.
When is catheterization indicated for bladder distension?
If non-invasive measures are ineffective to relieve distension.
What should be monitored if catheterization is required?
Signs of urinary tract infection, including fever, dysuria, or cloudy urine.
