Postpartum Complications: In a Nutshell (Nursing)

00:01 So let's review.

00:03 Subinvolution occurs when the uterus does not go back to its non-pregnant state.

00:08 Infection and things that cause the uterus to be over distended can increase the chances of subinvolution.

00:15 Uterine inversion may occur from aggressive fundal massage, so massaging the uterus really hard can actually push the uterus outside of the vagina.

00:26 Heavy bleeding noted 24 hours after delivery up to 12 weeks postpartum is associated with a secondary postpartum hemorrhage.

00:35 Remember, uterine atony is the number cause.

00:39 Breast tissue that is red, swollen, tender may indicate mastitis.

00:45 Usually it's going to be unilateral.

00:47 Antibiotics and more frequent feeding of the infant will help to alleviate the infection.

00:53 A 150 milliliters of urine in the bladder after voiding may indicate urinary retention.

01:00 A prolonged second stage epidural anesthesia or an instrument delivery or a really large baby may increase the risk.

01:09 Risk for urinary tract infection increases with the use of an indwelling or in and out catheter.

01:16 Unilateral pain, swelling, or redness, or tenderness in one leg or the other, may indicate a deep vein thrombosis.

01:25 Sequential compression devices or compression hose post cesarean birth and frequent ambulation, will decrease the risk of a DVT.

01:35 A decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit without obvious blood loss, especially when accompanied by pain or pressure, may indicate the formation of a hematoma.

01:45 We need to be aware when there's an instrument delivery or an operative delivery that risks are increased.

01:51 And finally, a client who presents with shortness of air, chest pain, and low oxygen saturation may be experiencing of amniotic fluid embolus.

02:02 This is an OB emergency and will absolutely likely require full CPR support.

02:07 You made it. We're all done.