Postpartum

Question 1

What are the 3 types of Lochia?

Answer 1

Rubra, Serosa, Alba

Question 2

What is involution?

Answer 2

The rapid reduction in size and the return of the uterus to a normal condition

Question 3

What are 4 assessments of the fundus?

Answer 3

Height/Location
Midline
Firmness
Tenderness

Question 4

Factors that slow uterine involution?

Answer 4

Multiple Gestations/ Hydramnios
Prolonged Labor
Full Bladder
Excessive analgesics
Incomplete explusion of placenta

Question 5

Factors that facilitate uterine involution?

Answer 5

Uncomplicated L&D
Complete expulsion of placenta
Breastfeeding
Early Ambulation
Good Nutrition

Question 6

If a pt has completely soiled a pad within an hour what should you assess?

Answer 6

Condition of fundus

Question 7

What are the 3 stages of Maternal Adaptation?

Answer 7

Taking In
Taking Hold
Letting Go

Question 8

What lab assessments are necessary before discharge?

Answer 8

Hemoglobin
Hematocrit
WBC
Rubella status
Mother and baby's blood type for Rhogam indication

Question 9

What is the fundus height right after delivery?

Answer 9

Half way between the umbilicus and the symphysis pubis

Question 10

What is the schedule for assessing Vital signs after birth?

Answer 10

Every 15 min first hour
Every 30 min second hour
Every 4 hours for the first 24 hrs
Every 8 hours thereafter

Question 11

How long is the Postpartum period?

Answer 11

6 weeks

Question 12

Where is the fundus felt 12 hrs after birth?

Answer 12

At the umbilicus/ U/U

Question 13

How fast does the fundus descend?

Answer 13

1 cm or fingerbreadth per day

Question 14

How long does each type of Lochia last?

Answer 14

Rubra- Days 1-3
Serosa- Days 4-10
Alba- Days 11-21

Question 15

Why is there nothing inserted into the vagina for the 6 weeks following birth?

Answer 15

Risk for Infection