Postpartum Period Flashcards

by Prof Orbista

1
Q

What is the postpartum (puerperium) period?

A

It is the period after childbirth, lasting about 6 weeks, during which the mother’s body returns to its pre-pregnancy state.

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2
Q

It refers to the process where the reproductive organs, particularly the uterus, return to their pre-pregnancy size and condition, typically taking about 10 days.

A

Involution

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3
Q

It is the failure of the uterus to return to its pre-pregnant state after 6 weeks.

A

Subinvolution

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4
Q

It is caused by intermittent uterine contractions and are common in multiparas and women with an overly distended uterus.

A

Afterpains

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5
Q

What are the types of Lochia?

A
  1. Lochia Rubra
  2. Lochia Serosa
  3. Lochia Alba
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6
Q

Type of Lochia:

Red, lasts 3 days, contains blood and fragments of decidua.

A

Lochia Rubra

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7
Q

Type of Lochia:

Pinkish-brown, lasts 4-7 days, contains blood, mucus, and leukocytes.

A

Lochia Serosa

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8
Q

Type of Lochia:

Clear or white, lasts 7-14 days, mostly mucus with a high leukocyte count.

A

Lochia Alba

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9
Q

What are the two types of episiotomy?

A
  1. Midline Episiotomy
  2. Mediolateral Episiotomy
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10
Q

Type of Episiotomy:

Incision made straight down toward the anus, less painful and easy to repair.

A

Midline Episiotomy

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11
Q

Type of Episiotomy:

Incision at a 45-degree angle to the right buttock, more painful with increased blood loss and long-term discomfort.

A

Mediolateral Episiotomy

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12
Q

A period of emotional letdown characterized by conflicting feelings of joy and sadness during the first weeks after birth, often caused by hormonal changes.

A

Postpartum Blues

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13
Q

What does BUBBLESHE stand for in postpartum assessment?

A

Breast, Uterus, Bladder, Bowel, Lochia, Episiotomy, Vital Signs, Homan’s Sign, Emotional Status.

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14
Q

What benefits does breastfeeding provide for the mother postpartum?

A

Breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin, helping the uterus contract and reducing afterpains. It also enhances bonding and provides important antibodies to the baby.

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15
Q

Why is massaging the uterine fundus important postpartum?

A

It helps maintain uterine contraction, expels clots, and reduces the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

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16
Q

What are the types of shock that can occur postpartum?

A
  1. Cardiogenic Shock
  2. Anaphylactic Shock
  3. Septic Shock
  4. Hypovolemic Shock
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17
Q

Type of Shock:

Due to pulmonary embolism, hypertension, or anemia.

A

Cardiogenic Shock

18
Q

Type of Shock:

Due to allergic reactions.

A

Anaphylactic Shock

19
Q

Type of Shock:

Due to puerperal infection.

A

Septic Shock

20
Q

Type of Shock:

Due to postpartum hemorrhage or blood clotting disorders.

A

Hypovolemic Shock

21
Q

Blood loss greater than 500 mL after vaginal birth or 1000 mL after cesarean section.

A

Postpartum Hemorrhage

22
Q

Laceration Degree:

Involves the fourchette, perineal skin, and vaginal mucous membrane.

A

1st Degree

23
Q

Laceration Degree:

Involves the muscles of the perineal body.

A

2nd Degree

24
Q

Laceration Degree:

Extends to the anal sphincter.

A

3rd Degree

25
Q

Laceration Degree:

Extends to the mucosa of the rectum.

A

4th Degree

26
Q

It is to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can help prevent urinary incontinence.

A

Kegel Exercises

27
Q

What are important postpartum discharge instructions?

A

> Avoid heavy work and lifting for 3 weeks.
Rest during the day and get adequate sleep.
Practice good hygiene, including perineal care.
Coitus is safe once lochia turns alba and the episiotomy has healed.

28
Q

Affects up to 50% of women, characterized by mood swings, tearfulness, and anxiety, typically lasting for the first 2 weeks postpartum.

A

Postpartum Blues

29
Q

More severe, lasting longer than 2 weeks, with symptoms like persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and difficulty bonding with the baby, requiring medical intervention.

A

Postpartum Depression

30
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Checking for tenderness, engorgement, and nipple condition.

A

Breast

31
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Monitoring fundal height, firmness, and position to ensure proper involution.

A

Uterus

32
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Ensuring normal voiding and monitoring for signs of retention.

A

Bladder

33
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Assessing for bowel movements and any constipation or hemorrhoids.

A

Bowel

34
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Monitoring color, amount, and presence of clots to detect abnormal bleeding.

A

Lochia

35
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Checking healing and any signs of infection at the incision site.

A

Episiotomy

36
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Observing temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate for signs of infection or hemorrhage.

A

Vital Signs

37
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Checking for calf pain that could indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

A

Homan’s Sign

38
Q

BUBBLESHE:

Monitoring mood, bonding, and any signs of postpartum blues or depression.

A

Emotional Status

39
Q

What are the key principles of proper breastfeeding technique and care?

A

> Proper positioning (cradle or football hold) to support both mother and baby.

> The baby’s mouth should cover the entire areola, not just the nipple.

> Frequent nursing (every 2-3 hours) to establish milk supply.

> Burp the baby halfway through feeding.

> For engorgement, apply warm compresses before feeding and cold compresses after.

40
Q

It is performed to maintain uterine contraction and prevent postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse places one hand above the symphysis pubis to stabilize the uterus while massaging the fundus with the other hand in a circular motion to expel blood clots and stimulate contractions.

A

Uterine Fundal Massage

41
Q

What are the signs and symptoms of postpartum hemorrhage, and how is it managed?

A

Signs include heavy vaginal bleeding, large blood clots, and a soft, boggy uterus. Management includes uterine massage, administering medications like oxytocin, blood transfusions, and monitoring for signs of hypovolemic shock (tachycardia, pallor, cold, clammy skin)

42
Q

What key discharge instructions should be given to postpartum mothers?

A

> Rest: Plan rest periods during the day and ensure a full night’s sleep.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 3 weeks.
Begin muscle-strengthening exercises in the 2nd week.
Maintain proper hygiene, especially for the perineum.
Coitus is safe once lochia has turned alba and episiotomy has healed.