Assess for signs and symptoms of infection: REEDA (redness, edema, ecchymosis, discharge, approximation of sutures) To relieve pain: -Sim¶s positiono -Perineal heat lamp or warm sitz baths twice a day -Apply ice or cold therapy
Homan¶s Sign
- Relative inactivity/prolonged time in stirrups leads to stasis of blood and promotes clotting of blood in the lower extremities Management: -Early ambulation -Avoid crossing of legs, constrictive clothings/undergarments Emotions
- As soon as birth is completed the woman experiences total exhaustion. Other Post-partum instructions: Activity: Restrict Restrict unnecessary physical ph ysical activity for at least seven days. Bathing: You may shower, sponge bath and wash your hair during the first 2 weeks. Sexual intercourse: Do not have intercourse until your six-week checkup. Exercise: You can engage in exercise is 1-2 weeks after delivery. Diet: Eat foods that supply your body with essential fatty acids, like fresh salmon, nuts, and seeds. Eat whole, preferably organic, foods ± whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits, unprocessed meats, nuts, and seeds, for example. Eat foods that supply your body with antioxidants (mainly fresh fruits fruits and vegetables). Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. Eat a source of nutrient-laden fiber, such as ground flaxseed y
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- The postpartum period represents a time to emotional stress for the new mother, made even more difficult by the tremendous physiologic changes that occur. Rest and sleep
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POSTPARTUM CARE
-Increase fluid and fiber intake
Postpartum
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time period following childbirth.
Uterus
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Assessment
Should move 1 cm or 1 fingerbreadth per day. Must go back to its non-pregnant state after 9-10 days.
B-U-B-B-L-E-H-E-R Breast
- Lactation- formation of breast milk. - Engorgement-the feeling of tension (heat or throbbing pain) in the breast as breast distention becomes marked (fuller, larger, firmer). Mastitis-when breasts grow red, swollen, and painful.
Management: -Breast feeding -Apply warm compress to stop the pain -Instruct the mother to wear a supportive bra For breastfeeding moms -Cleaning Your Breasts While Breastfeeding -Breast Creams For Dry Or Cracked Nipples -Supporting Your Breasts -Using Nursing Pads To Prevent Leaks
Lochial
Discharge - uterine discharge consisting of blood, deciduas, WBC, mucus and some bacteria.
Management: -put ice pack over the fundus -fundus massage
Lochia rubra Dark red in color within first 2-3 days, contains blood fragments
Bladder
Lochia alba Pinkish to brownish discharge It is a serosanguineous discharge containing erythrocytes, leukocytes, cervical mucus and microorganism It has a strong odor
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May have difficulty voiding because of abdominal pressure or trauma to the bladder
Management: -Pouring warm and cool water alternately over the vulva -Encourage the client to go to the comfort room -Let her listen to the sound o f running water -Encourage fluid intake Bowel
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Bowel movement may be delayed
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Constipation may trigger
Management: -Early and frequent ambulation
Lochia serosa Almost colorless to creamy yellowish discharge occurring from 10 days to 3 weeks after delivery. It contains leukocytes, dec iduas, epithelial cells, fat, cervical mucus, cholesterol crystals and bacteria Odorless Episiotomy - Appears edematous and bruised after delivery caused by episiotomy (if performed) and some degree of laceration
