Postpartum Physiological & Psychological Changes & Nursing Care – An Outline

Physiological

Reproductive System

Uterus
Involution
Afterpains
Boggy uterus
Endometrium
Lochia
Endomitritis
Vagina
Perineum
Episiotomy
Laceration
REEDA

Breasts
Engorgement
Colostrum
Mastitis

Cardiovascular System

Blood loss – vaginal and c-section

Vital signs – BP, HR
Labs – WBC
Thrombosis
Orthostatic hypotension

Respiratory System

Respiratory Rate (RR)

Immune System

Temperature
Rubella
Rh Isoimmunization and its prevention

Urinary System

Bladder
Diuresis
Bladder distention/cystitis
Endocrine System

Nonlactating women vs Lactating women

Diaphoresis

Muscular & Nervous System

Diastasis recti abdominis

Headache

GI System

Muscle tone & motility

Constipation
Hemorrhoids
Appetite
Weight Loss

Contraception pp. 323-326

Clinical Pathway for Uncomplicated Vaginal Delivery pp. 329-331

Medications for Postpartum Client (Indication, Dosage, Route, Precautions)

Methergine
Hemabate
Cytotec
Oxytocin
Narcotics (Tylenol 3, Norco, Percoset, Percodan)
Analgesics (Ibuprofen)
Toradol
Colace
Dermoplast
Tucks

Transition to Parenthood

Parental roles
Cultural Beliefs
Maternal Phase & expected behavior
Bonding & Attachment
Parent-Infant Contact
Family Dynamics – Multiparas, Sibling rivalry
Parents with sensory or physical Impairments
Clinical Pathway for Transition to Prenthood p. 263
Phychosocial

Postpartum blues vs Postpartum depression (characteristics, nursing interventions, medical mgt)

Postpartum Psychosis

High-Risk PP Nursing Care

Hemorrhage
Uterine Atony
Lacerations
Hematomas
Subinvolution of the uterus
Retained Placental Tissue
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Thrombosis
Infections (endomitritis, cystitis, mastitis, wound infection

Discharge Criteria

Disorders Later in Life R/T Childbirth Trauma

Uterine Prolapse
Genital Fistulas
Cystocele
Rectoceles
Urinary Incontinence

Read Critical Components and Evidence-Based Practices for the chapter.

Review ATI – Chapters 20-22
Read & Review “UptoDate”