Postpartum Care and Complications Practice Flashcards

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering postpartum physical recovery, mental health, breastfeeding, infections, and pharmacological interventions.

Postpartum Blues Timeline

Symptoms usually begin during the first postpartum days, peak on the $5th$ day, and subside over the next several days (roughly the first $2$ weeks postpartum).

Postpartum Depression Onset

A condition that usually appears around $2$ weeks after childbirth.

Anhedonia

A symptom of postpartum depression characterized by the inability to feel pleasure.

Postpartum Depression Medications

Includes $SNRIs$ (Effexor, Cymbalta), $SSRIs$ (Prozac, Zoloft), and Tricyclics (Pamelor, Tofranil).

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Symptoms

Clinical signs include pain, erythema, heat, and swelling or edema evidenced by an increased calf circumference.

DVT Nursing Interventions

The nurse should ensure the patient does not walk and should instead elevate the extremity.

Fundal Massage Position

The patient must be in a supine position, as any other position is not considered a proper assessment.

Fundal Massage Hand Placement

One hand is placed over the symphysis pubis while the other hand moves inward.

Epidural Nursing Considerations

Nurses must preload patients because epidurals can cause blood pressure to drop; warm blankets are given if the patient gets the shivers due to vasodilation.

Vaginal Hematoma Symptoms

Patients experience moderate to severe pain and pressure described as feeling like they have to poop.

Vaginal Hematoma Surgical Threshold

Surgical evacuation is required if the hematoma reaches $4\,cm$.

$4th$ Stage of Labor

The recovery stage, occurring roughly $4$ to $6\,hours$ after delivery.

Breastfeeding SIDS Benefit

Breastfed babies have a lower chance of $SIDS$ (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Infant Readiness Cues

Signs the baby is ready to feed include flexed arms, rooting, hand-to-mouth movements, bobbing heads back and forth, or arching their backs.

Breaking the Latch

The technique of inserting a finger into the infant's mouth to break the seal after breastfeeding is finished.

Bottle Feeding Safety

Moms should never put a bottle or breast milk in the microwave, never cut a nipple bigger, and should use distilled water rather than tap or boiled water.

Breastmilk Storage (Fresh)

Fresh milk can stay at room temperature for $4\,hours$.

Breastmilk Storage (Refrigerator)

Fresh milk can be stored in the refrigerator for $5\text{-}7\,days$.

Breastmilk Storage (Deep Freeze)

Milk can be stored in a deep freeze for $6\text{-}12\,months$.

Endometritis

A uterine infection characterized by foul-smelling lochia, high temperature, and an internal infection.

Mastitis

An infection of the milk duct where the breast is red and warm, accompanied by a temperature and malaise.

Hemabate (Carboprost)

An intramuscular (IM) medication for postpartum hemorrhage that is contraindicated in patients with asthma.

Methergine (Metho)

An intramuscular (IM) medication for postpartum hemorrhage that is contraindicated in patients with blood pressure problems.

Cytotec (Miso)

A medication for postpartum hemorrhage that is administered rectally to all appropriate patients.

Oral Contraceptive Contraindications

Includes clotting issues, $HTN$, smoking, age older than $35$, and cerebrovascular disease.

Postpartum Fever Threshold

Temperature is not a concern until it reaches $100.4\,^\circ F$.

Estimated Blood Loss (EBL) Limits

Normal blood loss is up to $500\,mL$ for a vaginal delivery and $1000\,mL$ for a C-section.

Uterine Atony

The most common reason for postpartum hemorrhage ($PPH$).

Late Prenatal Care

Defined as receiving no prenatal care for the first $20\,weeks$ of pregnancy.

Postpartum Hemorrhage Causes

Common causes of postpartum hemorrhage include uterine atony, retained placental fragments, and vaginal or cervical lacerations.

Signs of Uterine Atony

Signs of uterine atony include a soft, boggy uterus upon palpation and increased bleeding.

Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression

Risk factors include a previous history of depression, lack of social support, and stressful life events.

Signs of Endometritis

Signs of endometritis include fever, tachycardia, uterine tenderness, and foul-smelling lochia.

Nursing Interventions for Endometritis

Nursing interventions include administering antibiotics, monitoring vital signs, and providing education on signs of infection.

Breastfeeding Benefits Beyond SIDS

Breastfeeding also decreases the risk of infections, obesity, and diabetes later in life for the child.

Signs of Mastitis

Signs of mastitis include localized breast pain, swelling, redness, and a flu-like illness.

Management of Mastitis

Management includes antibiotics, analgesics, and continuing breastfeeding to promote drainage.

Signs of a Clogged Milk Duct

Signs include a tender lump in the breast that may be accompanied by localized pain or swelling.

Treatment of Clogged Milk Duct

Treatment includes warm compresses, continued breastfeeding or pumping, and massage of the area.

Differences Between Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression

Baby blues are typically short-lived, lasting a few days to a couple of weeks, while postpartum depression lasts longer and requires treatment.

Gina's Law (Abolishing Sale of Infant Formula in Hospitals)

Some states have enacted laws to limit or abolish the distribution of infant formula in hospitals to encourage breastfeeding.

Impact of Stress on Lactation

High stress levels can inhibit lactation and milk supply due to the release of stress hormones.

Breastfeeding Positioning Techniques

Techniques include the football hold, cross-cradle hold, and side-lying position.

Safe Formula Preparation

Formula should be prepared according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring bottles and nipples are sanitized.

Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Formula

Signs include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, and fussiness.

Nursing Considerations for Cesarean Recovery

Include monitoring for infection, pain management, and assisting with mobility.

Emotional Changes Postpartum

Common emotional changes include mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy.

Importance of Support Systems Postpartum

Support systems are crucial in helping mothers cope with the challenges of postpartum life.

Impact of Parenting on Mental Health

Parenting can impact mental health positively or negatively; support and coping strategies are essential.

Understanding Attachment Theory

Attachment theory explains how early relationships with caregivers can impact emotional development.

Breastfeeding Challenges with Returning to Work

Challenges include difficulties in maintaining milk supply and finding time and space to express milk.

Effects of Alcohol on Breastfeeding

Alcohol can pass into breast milk; mothers are advised to limit intake and wait at least two hours after drinking to feed.

Knowledge on Birth Control Postpartum

It is important for postpartum women to discuss birth control options with their healthcare provider to avoid unwanted pregnancies.

Signs of Postpartum Psychosis

Signs include severe mood swings, confusion, hallucinations, and delusions, which require immediate medical attention.