Maternal & Child Nursing - High-Risk Postpartum Conditions

A comprehensive collection of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to high-risk postpartum conditions in maternal and child nursing.

Postpartum Complications

Health risks related to postpartum periods affecting mothers' health, future child-bearing potential, and bonding with infants.

Postpartal Hemorrhage

Loss of more than 500 ml of blood during or immediately after delivery.

Early Postpartum Hemorrhage

Hemorrhage occurring within the first 24 hours after delivery.

Late Postpartum Hemorrhage

Hemorrhage occurring anytime after the first 24 hours during the 6-week puerperium.

Uterine Atony

Relaxation of the uterus leading to loss of muscle tone, the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.

Perineal Hematomas

Localized collections of blood in connective tissue beneath the skin in the perineal area.

Endometritis

Infection of the endometrium that can occur after childbirth.

Mastitis

Infection of the breast tissue, often associated with nipple fissures.

Thrombophlebitis

Inflammation of a vein due to a blood clot, can occur postpartum.

Postpartum Blues

Transient mood disturbances experienced by up to 85% of women shortly after childbirth.

Postpartum Depression

A more serious form of depression occurring in 10%-20% of new mothers after childbirth.

Postpartum Psychosis

Severe psychiatric condition following childbirth, characterized by loss of reality.

Subinvolution

Failure of the uterus to return to its normal size after childbirth.

Retained Placental Fragments

Incomplete expulsion of the placenta, a common cause of late postpartum hemorrhage.

Suturing

The process of stitching up lacerations after childbirth.

Antenatal Assessment

The evaluation of a woman's health and the unborn child’s health before birth.

Urinary Tract Infection

Infection of the urinary system that may occur postpartum.

Nurse's Role in Postpartum Care

Monitoring, educating, and providing interventions for postpartum complications.

Fundal Massage

Technique used to stimulate uterine contractions and prevent hemorrhage.

Fluid Resuscitation

Replacement of fluids lost due to postpartum hemorrhage.

Lochia

Postpartum vaginal discharge that consists of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue.

Anticoagulants

Medications used to prevent blood clots, essential in managing thrombophlebitis.

Hemolytic S. aureus

Bacterial organism often responsible for mastitis.

Polyhydramnios

Condition where excess amniotic fluid is present, increasing risk for uterine atony.

Oxytocin

Hormone administered to aid uterine contractions postpartum.

Methergine

Medication used to control postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony.

Homan's Sign

Test for deep vein thrombosis indicated by pain in the calf upon dorsiflexion.

Dilatation and Curettage (D&C)

Surgical procedure to remove uterine contents, such as retained placental fragments.

Anemia Postpartum

Condition where woman suffers low red blood cell count due to blood loss.

Sitz Bath

Warm water bath for the perineal area to provide comfort and hygiene.

Psychotropic Medications

Medications such as SSRIs used to treat postpartum depression.

Mental Health Screening

Assessing new mothers for signs of postpartum mood disorders.

Infection Control Measures

Practices to prevent infection during the postpartum period.

Support Networks

Groups or resources available to help new mothers cope with postpartum challenges.

Emergency Response for Psychosis

Immediate intervention required for women experiencing severe postpartum psychiatric symptoms.

Cervical Laceration

Tear in the cervix that can occur during childbirth.

Education on Self-Care

Providing mothers advice on personal care for recovery postpartum.

Incision Care

Taking care of surgical cuts post-delivery to prevent infection.

Foul Odor Lochia

Possible sign of infection characterized by unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge.

Emotional Support

Providing comfort and reassurance to postpartum women experiencing mood changes.

Encouragement of Rest

Advice for new mothers to sleep when the baby sleeps.

Lactation Consulting

Providing guidance on breastfeeding techniques and issues.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles postpartum.

Nutritious Diet

Importance of balanced meals in postpartum recovery.

Hormonal Imbalances

Fluctuations in hormones contributing to postpartum depression.

Birth Trauma Impact

Effects of a difficult delivery on a mother's mental health.

Peer Support Groups

Community support for mothers dealing with postpartum challenges.

Physical Assessment

Evaluating the physical state of a postpartum woman for recovery progress.

Family Intrusions

Challenges that arise in family dynamics after having a baby.

Checklist for Postpartum Symptoms

Guideline for mothers to identify concerning signs post-delivery.

Grief and Loss

Emotional responses to unexpected outcomes in childbirth.

Antibiotic Therapy in Postpartum Infection

Use of antibiotics to treat infections following childbirth.

Pain Management Strategies

Non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic methods to relieve postpartum pain.

Emotional Regulation Skills

Techniques to help mothers manage their emotions postpartum.

Educational Workshops for New Mothers

Programs designed to provide information to mothers about postpartum recovery.

Supportive Hospital Practices

Strategies hospitals can use to aid new mothers in their postpartum journey.

Regular Checkups

Importance of follow-up appointments to monitor postpartum recovery.

Bonding with Newborn

The emotional connection developed between the mother and infant.

Community Resources

Available local support services for new mothers.

Expectations Management

Addressing unrealistic expectations that can lead to postpartum stress.

Screening for Depression and Anxiety

Assessing mothers for mental health conditions post-delivery.

Developing Coping Strategies

Creating personalized methods for dealing with postpartum challenges.

Importance of Fluid Intake

Hydration needs to support recovery during the postpartum period.

Postpartum Follow-Up Care

Ongoing support and care for mothers post-delivery.

Infant Feeding Education

Instruction on the nutritional needs of infants.

Encouraging Social Interaction

Promoting engagement with friends and family for postpartum support.

Physical Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Manifestation of depression through physical health issues.

Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Methods to encourage mothers and celebrate milestones during recovery.

Therapeutic Communication

Using effective communication to support emotional wellbeing of postpartum women.

Parental Leave Policies

Workplace regulations that allow time off for new parents.

Crisis Intervention for Mothers

Immediate support for mothers in distress.

Postpartum Routine Establishment

Creating a daily schedule that incorporates self-care and infant care.

Advocacy for Maternal Health

Promoting awareness and resources for improving health outcomes for mothers.