Postnatal Physiological Changes

Question 1

What is an example of a minimal postnatal care plan.

Answer 1

Star Day - Obs, Mum and baby check, baby’s weight, NIPE, hearing screen
Day 1 - Obs, mum and baby check
Day 2 - Obs, mum and baby check
Day 3 - Baby weight if BF
Day 5 - Mum and baby check, baby weight, newborn blood spot offered
Day 10 - Mum and baby check, baby weight. Hand over to HV if ok.

Question 2

What is Lochia?

Answer 2

Blood products immediately after birth.

Question 3

What are the different types of lochia?

Answer 3

Rubra - Darkened and lasts 3-4 days.
Serosa - Pinkish Brown and lasts 4-10 days.
Alba - Whiteish yellow and lasts 10-28 days.

Question 4

What are the 9 points to be checked at birth?

Answer 4

Skin.
Head.
Face.
Neck.
Chest and Abdomen.
Anus.
Genitalia.
Limbs, Hands and Feet
Spine

Question 5

How long does it take for a woman’s body to return to pre-pregnant physical state?

Answer 5

6-8 weeks.

Question 6

What is the approximate number of cotyledons in the placenta?

Answer 6

15-20