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Obstetrics > Post-Partum Perineal Care > Flashcards

Post-Partum Perineal Care Flashcards

1
Q

What is normal for the perineal area after childbirth?

A

It will normally feel sore, even if there were no stitches

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2
Q

How long can perineal discomfort last after childbirth?

A

Days or weeks

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3
Q

What trauma to the perineum is common after delivery?

A

Perineal tears and episiotomies

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4
Q

What is placed after repair of the perineum?

A

Dissolvable stitches

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5
Q

How long do dissolvable stitches used in perineum care take to dissolve completely?

A

About a month

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6
Q

What does post-natal perineum care consist of?

A
  • Keeping perineum clean
  • Doing pelvic floor exercises
  • Measures to prevent strep A infection
  • Easing discomfort
  • Air filled valley cushions or rubber rings
  • Taking warm bath
  • Creams or local anaesthetic spray
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7
Q

What measures should be taken to keep the perineum clean?

A
  • Plain warm water to clean perineum
  • Wash perineum after using toilet
  • Try and wear breathable materials
  • Change sanitary pads frequently
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8
Q

What might the patient find helpful during passing urine, regarding the perineum?

A

Lean forwards over knees to direct urine away from stitches, or use a small jug to pour warm water over perineum during and after passing urine

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9
Q

Why is it important to do pelvic floor exercises?

A

Increase strength to reduce the risk of incontinence

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10
Q

Other than increasing strength, what is the additional benefit of doing pelvic floor exercises in the post-natal period?

A

Increases blood flow to damaged tissue which helps speed up healing process

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11
Q

What is group A strep?

A

A bacteria found on skin and in throat

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12
Q

When might group A strep be serious?

A

If it gets into the blood stream within 6 weeks of the birth of the baby

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13
Q

How can the mother reduce the risk of getting group A strep infection?

A

Wash hands before and after using toilet, changing sanitary pad, or wound dressing

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14
Q

When should the mother be advised to contact the midwife or GP urgently regarding group A strep?

A

If the patient or family member has sore throat, earache, impetigo, or they are concerned about how wound/stitches are healing

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15
Q

What might help with easing discomfort in the perineum after childbirth?

A
  • Paracetamol and ibuprofen

- Cold therapy

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16
Q

What can paracetamol help with regarding the perineum?

A

Stinging pains

17
Q

What can ibuprofen help with regarding the perineum?

A

Swelling

18
Q

How is cold therapy for perineal discomfort carried out?

A

Ice/cool packs used in the first 2-3 days

19
Q

What is the purpose of cold therapy for perineal discomfort?

A

Reduce swelling and ease discomfort

20
Q

How long should cold therapy for perineal discomfort be used for?

A

Apply pack for up to 30 mins at a time, and allow at least an hours rest

21
Q

What care should be taken when using hot/cold therapy for perineal discomfort?

A

The ice/cool pack should not come into direct contact with skin - wrap in flannel or tea towel

22
Q

What is the purpose of air filled valley cushions or rubber rings?

A

Can relieve pressure on perineum when sitting

23
Q

How long can air filled valley cushions/rubber rings be used for?

A

No more than 30 mins at a time

24
Q

Why should you not use air filled valley cushions/rubber rings for more than 30 minutes at a time?

A

As they can restrict circulation

25
Q

What happens to the rectum as the baby is born?

A

The rectum is pushed against the pelvis, leaving it feeling bruised

26
Q

What should be patient be advised to do to minimise rectal discomfort?

A

Avoid constipation

27
Q

How can constipation be avoided in the postpartum period?

A
  • Fibre in diet
  • Lots of water
  • Gentle laxatives
28
Q

When can the patient resume sex after childbirth?

A

There is no right time to resume sex, and it may be weeks or months until they feel ready

29
Q

What can happen to the vagina when women breastfeed?

A

It can be drier

30
Q

How can vaginal dryness caused by breast-feeding be managed?

A

Lubricant

31
Q

What should the mother do if intercourse is painful after childbirth?

A

See GP or health visitor

Obstetrics (61 decks)

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