Week 5

Question 1

What is Involution

Answer 1

Rapid decrease in size of uterus as it returns to nonpregnant state; fundal height decreases one fingerbreadth (1 cm) per day

Question 2

Ovarian Function and Menstruation

Answer 2

Menstrual flow resumes within 1-2 months in non–breast-feeding mothers, usually within 3-6 months in breast-feeding mothers.
Breast-feeding mothers may experience amenorrhea during entire period of lactation.

Question 3

Urinary Tract post birth

Answer 3

May have initial urinary retention as a result of loss of elasticity, tone, and sensation of bladder; diuresis begins in first 12 hours after birth

Question 4

When should you admin Rho(D) Immune Globulin

Answer 4

within 72 hours postpartum to Rh-negative mother who has given birth to Rhpositive newborn.

Question 5

Nutritional Counselling

Answer 5

If breast-feeding, calorie needs increase 200-500 cal/day; increased fluids required, in addition to continuation of prenatal vitamins and minerals.

Question 6

Uterine Atony

Answer 6

A poorly contracted uterus that doesn’t adequately compress vessels at placental site; can result in hemorrhage

Question 7

Thrombophlebitis

Answer 7

Condition in which clot forms in vessel wall as a result of inflammation of vessel wall; partial obstruction of vessel can occur

Question 8

Subinvolution

Answer 8

Incomplete involution or failure of uterus to return to normal size and condition
Assess: Uterine pain on palpation; uterus larger than expected; greater than normal vaginal bleeding

Question 9

Perinatal Mood Disorders

Answer 9

Up to 80% of women experience a mild depression or “baby blues.” Upward of 20% of women have more serious mood disorders

Question 10

How long should baby blues typically last?

Answer 10

Usually peak at days 4 and 5 and resolve by day 14

Question 11

Postpartum Depression and psychosis

Answer 11

Symptoms last longer and are more severe; require treatment
May lead to poor bonding, alienation from loved ones, daily dysfunction, and violent thoughts/actions

Question 12

Postpartum Depression without Psychotic Features

Answer 12

Psychotherapy focuses on fears and concerns of new responsibilities and roles; monitoring for suicidal or homicidal thoughts

Question 13

Screening for postpartum depression

Answer 13

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is recommended any time during the postpartum period (birth to 12 months)

Question 14

Barriers to seeking help

Answer 14

Stigma associated with mental illness and/or asking for help.
Lack of knowledge of normal adjustments to becoming a parent and what is a mental health disorder that requires help.
Minimizing symptoms and thinking they will go away (denial).