Discharge Education (Nursing Care of the Family PP)

What is the purpose of discharge planning?

• Anticipates patients needs AFTER discharge

• Reduces the stay time and readmissions

• Assess support systems Nov-25

• Anticipate problems of self-care and caring for baby

• Identify needs EARLY 20

• MAKE SURE ALL EDUCATION NEEDS ARE MET BEFORE DISCHARGE

With discharge instructions what two points are under general instruction?

• Swelling: drink plenty of fluids, ambulate, elevate legs when sitting

• Driving should be avoided for 1-2 weeks. Do not drive if taking narcotics

With the discharge instructions what information is under activity and rest section?

• Gradually resume normal activities

• Kegel exercises

• Avoid heavy lifting: do not lift anything heavier than baby and diaper bag

• REST

For discharge instructions under the section of hygiene what are the two points that are in that section that nurses need to cover?

• Shower as often as you like

• Avoid tub bath or swimming until after postpartum check up

When should the patient call the provider in regards to bleeding?

• Bloody or pus like drainage from incision

• Bleeding remains heavy despite rest

• Saturating a pad in an hour

• Passing multiple clots or clots egg size or bigger

• Foul smelling bleeding

What are some other situations when the patient should call the provider?

• Frequent urgency or burning on urination

• Temperature 100.4 or greater

• Unrelieved pain in back, side, or incision

• No bowel movement for four days or longer

• Social withdrawal 

• Persistent baby blues or depression 

• Hot , firm, red area of the breast

• Unilateral swelling in legs