Maternal Sepsis Flashcards
What is the most common cause of maternal death?
Thrombosis
Why are pregnant mothers at increased risk of sepsis?
It is a state of immunosuppression.
How does sepsis present in pregnant patients?
Tachycardia
Raised WCC
Other symptoms may be masked.
How is sepsis treated?
Co-amoxiclav
Can give gentamicin on top of this, or clindamycin if it is suspected to be group A strep.
What is chorioamnionitis?
Inflammation of foetal membranes due to bacteria.
How is chorioamnionitis?
Labour induction
Broad-spectrum antibiotics
Which bacteria is common within the vagina?
Group B strep.
How should group B strep. infection be treated?
Benzylpenicillin or clindamycin.
If patient has a known infection, is it ok to fit a coil?
No, this may prolong infection.
What are the risk factors for endometritis?
Operative delivery
Retained products of conception
Prolonged labour
How does endometritis present?
Abnormal pain
Abnormal PV bleeding
Offensive PV discharge
How is endometritis treated?
Co-amoxiclav
If there are RPoC, surgery may be needed.
Is mastitis bilateral?
No, usually unilateral.
Typically seen in breast-feeding mothers.
How is mastitis treated?
Empty breast (compress and give NSAIDs).
If unsuccessful, give flucloxacillin (or clindamycin if penicillin-resistant).
