healthy postpartum Flashcards
uterine involution
process of uterus returning to pre pregnant state (6 weeks)
healing time for placental site
6 weeks
return of menstruation
variable 6-10 weeks (if not breastfeeding)
if breastfeeding, period is often delayed while nursing until introduced to solid foods
can a patient get pregnant is she hasn’t had a period yet?
if she ovulates and hasn’t had a period yet, she can get pregnant at this time
what is the initial milk called?
colostrum (liquid gold), begins to be produced while pregnant before baby’s born
milk may come in…
3-5 days postpartum
postpartum lab values
- H&H: initially difficult to interpret (EBL); depends on mode of delivery
- WBCs: may initially be elevated bc of stress associated w/ labor
- PLTs: initially decrease bc placenta is given away
postpartum vitals
- Temp: up to 38.0 for the 24 hrs d/t exertion and dehydration
- BP: slightly elevated
- HR: slightly decreased
what is the initial weight loss postpartum?
10-12 lbs (infant, placenta, and fluid)
weight loss by 6-8 weeks postpartum
if gained average weight, 25-30 lbs
when can a client reestablish exercise regimen?
once patient has seen their doctor for a follow up PP –> typically 4-8 weeks PP
psychological adjustment to parenthood: “taking in-“
- passive (goes along w/ care being provided for her)
- allows others to make decisions for her
psychological adjustment to parenthood: “taking hold-“
- assumes more active role (may get more critical of herself during this period)
- provide her with reassurance (reassure that she is doing a good job)
postpartum nursing assessment
B: breast
U: uterus
B: bowel
B: bladder
L: lochia
E: episiotomy
H: homan’s (possibility of DVt)
E: emotional status
interventions for boggy uterus
massage uterus, monitor bleeding, vitals, LOC
