post partum hemorrhage

Question 1

what are risk factors of PPH?

Answer 1

• abnormal uterine tone, distention of uterus - which prevent uterine contraction
• prolonged labour
  retained placental tissue
• obstetrical lacerations
  trauma and maternal intrinsic bleeding defects

Question 2

should excessive bleeding occur, what should the nurse be monitoring?

Answer 2

monitor amount by # of soaker pads being saturated or weighing items used to stop flow or by volume if suction is used

Question 3

what should be done right away with a PPH?

Answer 3

start resuscitation quickly ensuring adequate perfusion of oxygen to tissues

Question 4

what should be assessed during a PPH?

Answer 4

circulation airway an breathing, adding o2, ensuring patent IVs, monitor vital signs, uterine massage

Question 5

what are the most common medications in PPH?

Answer 5

oxytocin, ergotamine, misoprostol (prostaglandin)

Question 6

what should be done if the bleeding cannot be stopped?

Answer 6

dr may be required to provide direct compression on the uterine wall with uterine packing or using a balloon divide

Question 7

what is the last resort with a PPH?

Answer 7

hysterectomy