Ch. 21 postpartum complication Flashcards
Define postpartum hemorrhage
Loss of 500ml or more of blood for vaginal birth
Loss of 1000ml or more of blood for cesarean birth
Define uterine Antony
Marked hypotonia (relaxation) of the uterus
What is the leading cause of early postpartum hemorrhage
Uterine atony
What happens if the uterus is flaccid after detachment of all parts of the placenta
Brisk venous bleeding occurs and normal coagulation of the open casulature is impaired and continues until the uterine muscle is contracted
What are some of the common associations of uterine atony
High parity, polyhydramnios, fetal macrosomia, multifetal gestation
Uterus is overstretched and contracts poorly
When is the placenta said to be retained
If it has not been expelled within 30min after birth
Define pelvic hematomas
Collection of blood in the connective tissue
Vaginal hematomas are commonly associated with
Forceps-assisted birth
episiotomy
primigravidity
Retroperitoneal hematomas are commonly associated with
Laceration of the vessels, rupture of cesarean scar
How are hematomas corrected
Surgically evacuated, pain relief, monitor bleeding, replace fluids, review labs
Define uterine inversion
Turning inside out
What are some of the contributing factors to uterine inversion
Fungal implantation of placenta, vigorous fungal pressure, excessive traction applied to cord, fetal macrosomia, short umbilical cord, tocolysis, prolonged labor, uterine atony
What are the presenting signs of uterine inversion
Sudden hemorrhage, shock, pain, uterus is not palpable abdominally
Why are tocolytics given before attempting to replacing uterus when inversion is suspected
To relax the uterus
What medications are given after uterine involution has been corrected
Oxytocin, and antibiotics
Define subinvolution
Delayed return of the enlarged uterus to normal size and function