Pediatric Nursing
How long does the Puerperium last? Ans- -Known as postpartum period.
-Six weeks following child birth
- Sometimes referred to as the fourth trimester of pregnancy.
How does nursing adapt for different cultures and OB nursing? Ans- The nursing care provided must be
adapted to the circumstances of the mother and infant.
What are some nursing considerations fro specific groups of patients? Ans- -Adolescents, Single women,
Families at or below the poverty level, Families who have twins (or more)
-Education, Support, Resources,Twins would be high stress, getting a good system/ routine down to stay
sane or or both maybe in the NICU.
What are some cultural influences on postpartum care? Ans- -The nurse must adapt care to fit: Health
beliefs, Values, and Practices.
-Use an interpreter where appropriate.
-Should not use a family member or in cultural/religious conflict with the patient/family.
-Use a "Language Line" (Interpreter phone)
-Think of Dietary practices— Some cultures, if they believe blood loss is hot they only replace with hot
liquids/foods. And nothing cold (ice water).
Why is it better to use interpreters and never family members? Ans- -It is a legal purpose
-Aids in the woman being able to understand and provide optimal care to her infant.
-Interpreter should not be a family member or from a group that is in social or religious conflict.
What should you expect with postpartum changes in the mother? Ans- -Major shifts in hormones in the
first 3 days.
-Immediately after delivery, the mother experiences multiple physiological changes.
, -It is important for the nurse to assess all body systems and not just focus on the reproductive system
changes.
Parts of the Reproductive System? Ans- -Uterus (Involution, Uterine lining, Descent of uterine fund us,
Afterpains.)
-Lochia (Rubra, Serosa, Alba)
-Cervix
-Vagina (Stress importance of discussing with health care provider when to resume vaginal intercourse
postpartum)
-Breasts (Engorgement, Nursing Care)
-Perineum
-Episiotomy (REEDA Assessment) (Nursing care and patient teaching- cold packs , Ice diaper, Topical and
systemic medications, Non pharmacological pain relief methods)
-Return of ovulation and menstruation (Menstrual cycle typically resumes in 6-8 weeks if not
breastfeeding, Return of ovulation is delayed if breastfeeding; however, it can occur at any time after
birth (pregnancy is possible) Mom maybe ovulation even with no period.
What happens with the breasts postpartum? Ans- -First 2-3 days postpartum, breasts are full but soft.
-Day 3, breasts become firm, lumpy due to increased blood flow and milk production
-Engorged breasts occur in both nursing and non nursing mothers
-Nipples should be assessed for redness and cracking and washed with plain water
-Support bra should be worn
(Don't want cracks, Nursing needs to do make sure to do good breast care, Supply and demand- maybe
oral gratification if they are staying latched on longer than 10-15 mins)
Changes with Cardiovascular System? Ans- -Cardiac output and blood volume
-Coagulation
-Blood values
-Chills
-Orthostatic hypotension
-Nursing Care