Postpartum Assessment and Newborn Care

This collection of flashcards covers key concepts related to postpartum assessment, newborn care, complications, and interventions for nursing students preparing for exams.

What does the BUBBLE-LE acronym stand for in postpartum assessment?

Breasts, Uterus, Bowel, Bladder, Lochia, Episiotomy, Lower extremities, Emotional status.

What is assessed under 'Breasts' in postpartum care?

Engorgement, mastitis, and breastfeeding effectiveness.

When does engorgement typically occur postpartum?

3-5 days postpartum.

What are signs of mastitis?

Pain, redness, and flu-like symptoms.

What management is recommended for engorgement?

Encourage pumping every 2-3 hours, warm compress before feeds, and cold compress after.

How does the uterus change postpartum?

It involutes, returning to its pre-pregnancy size.

What does LOCHIA stand for?

L describes the discharge from the uterus after birth.

What are the normal types and timelines of lochia?

Rubra: 1-3 days, Serosa: 4-10 days, Alba: 10 days to 6 weeks.

What is a typical finding for a postpartum uterus immediately after delivery?

The fundus should be firm and midline, 2 cm below the umbilicus.

What should happen within the first 6 hours regarding bladder function postpartum?

The patient must void.

What is a major concern if the bladder is full postpartum?

It can displace the uterus, increasing the risk of atony and hemorrhage.

What indicates abnormal findings of lochia?

Heavy bleeding, large clots, foul odor.

How should the emotional status be evaluated postpartum?

Assess bonding with the baby and readiness to learn.

What role does Prolactin play in postpartum care?

It is responsible for milk production.

What triggers the increase of Prolactin postpartum?

The drop in estrogen and progesterone levels immediately after delivery.

What is the main role of Oxytocin in postpartum care?

It aids uterine contractions and milk ejection during breastfeeding.

Why is it important to manage postpartum pain effectively?

It can affect the mother's emotional status and bonding experience.

What cardiovascular changes are expected immediately after delivery?

Increase in cardiac output and blood volume due to autotransfusion.

What should healthcare providers monitor frequently postpartum?

Blood pressure and pulse.

What does the acronym 'Four T's' refer to in postpartum hemorrhage?

Tone, Trauma, Tissue, and Thrombin.

What is uterine atony?

Failure of the uterus to contract effectively, a leading cause of PPH.

What can indicate a risk for retained placenta?

Partial separation of the placenta or prolonged third stage of labor.

What actions are taken immediately for postpartum hemorrhage?

Call for help, perform fundal massage, and empty the bladder.

What are the signs of uterine inversion?

The uterus turning inside out, leading to severe blood loss.

What are common symptoms of postnatal infection?

Fever, chills, uterine tenderness, and foul-smelling lochia.

What is the classification of postpartum infections?

Endometritis, Mastitis, and Sepsis.

What are normal findings in newborn vital signs?

Heart rate 110-160 bpm, respiratory rate 30-60 breaths/min, temperature 36.5-37.5°C.

What deviation indicates a possible newborn infection?

Temperature instability, lethargy, or poor feeding.

What does APGAR scoring assess?

Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, Respiratory effort.

What does a blue tint in the newborn's skin suggest?

Acrocyanosis, a normal transitional finding.

What does jaundice in newborns indicate?

The breakdown of fetal red blood cells and liver immaturity.

What is the primary reason for administering Vitamin K to newborns?

To prevent hemorrhagic disorders.

What should be reported as a concerning sign in a newborn?

Lethargy, poor feeding, and temperature extremes.

What can cause hypoglycemia in newborns?

Maternal diabetes, preterm birth, and SGA/LGA classifications.

What is the management for a newborn with hypoglycemia?

Blood glucose monitoring and early feedings.

Why are radiant warmers used for newborns?

To manage thermoregulation and prevent cold stress.

What are red flags for postpartum infections?

Fever over 38°C, persistent lochia rubra, or foul-smelling drainage.

What defines deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

The formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, often in the legs.

What interventions are necessary for a newborn at risk for hypoglycemia?

Blood glucose monitoring and potential IV glucose support.

What medications are typically administered for PPH?

Oxytocin, Methylergonovine, and Carboprost.

What contributes to the risk of infection in the postpartum period?

Surgical birth, prolonged labor, and retained tissue.

What is the common treatment for neonatal sepsis?

Antibiotics like Ampicillin and Gentamicin.

What screenings are conducted on newborns?

Metabolic screenings, glucose checks, and vital sign assessments.

What needs to be done if hypotension is present postpartum?

Immediate IV fluid administration and monitoring.

What can cause a delay in bond formation postpartum?

Postpartum depression or anxiety.

What is the purpose of the heel-stick procedure?

To perform newborn metabolic screenings and glucose monitoring.