Postnatal Care
Postnatal Care
Present By-
Ms. Sneha Govind Phulware
FY.MSC Nursing
1.
Immediate Postpartum Care
(First 24 Hours)
MOTHER
Monitoring Vital Signs: Blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature,
respiratory rate, and oxygen levels.
Monitoring Uterine Contractions: Ensuring the uterus is
contracting well to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
Perineal Care: Inspection for tears, episiotomy, or infections.
Encourage Breastfeeding Initiating breastfeeding within the first
hour to stimulate uterine contractions and promote bonding.
Monitoring for Signs of Shock: Checking for any signs of
excessive bleeding or complications
Analgesia: Providing pain relief for perineal discomfort, uterine
cramps, or any incision pain.
NEWBORN
Apgar Score: Assessing the newborn's health immediately after
birth.
Breastfeeding Initiation: Encouraging early skin-to-skin contact
and the first feed.
Thermoregulation: Ensuring the newborn is kept warm to avoid
hypothermia.
Vitamin K: Administering Vitamin K to prevent hemorrhagic
disease.
Eye Prophylaxis: Application of an antibiotic ointment or drops
to prevent eye infections.
2.
Postpartum Care for the
First Week
(1-7 Days)
MOTHER
Uterine Involution: Monitoring the size and position of the uterus to
ensure it is returning to its pre-pregnancy state.
Lochia Discharge: Monitoring the lochia (vaginal discharge post-delivery)
for abnormal colors, odors, or excessive amounts.
Breastfeeding Support: Helping the mother establish a successful
breastfeeding routine and ensuring latch and positioning are correct.
Exercise and Activity: Gradual encouragement of physical activity and
pelvic floor exercises to restore muscle tone and strength.
Infection Prevention: Ensuring that perineal wounds, C section incisions,
or episiotomies are healing well.
Diet and Hydration: Ensuring a nutritious diet to promote milk production
and maternal health.
NEWBORN
Feeding Frequency: Ensuring that the baby is breastfeeding
adequately and gaining weight.
Sleep and Rest: Guiding parents on optimal sleep routines and
safe sleep practices.
Umbilical Cord Care: Ensuring that the cord stump is clean
and dry to prevent infection.
Vaccinations: Administering the first dose of hepatitis B
vaccine, if applicable.
3.
Postpartum Care for the
Next 6 Weeks
MOTHER
Physical Recovery: Monitoring for any residual postpartum
complications like vaginal bleeding, perineal pain, or abdominal
discomfort.
Breast Care: Monitoring for any signs of engorgement, mastitis, or
nipple pain
Contraception: Discussing family planning and the use of contraception
during breastfeeding.
Follow-Up Visits: Scheduling visits at 6 weeks postpartum to assess
physical and mental health.
Mental Health Screening: Screening for any signs of postpartum
depression, anxiety, or other emotional issues.
NEWBORN
Growth Monitoring: Ensuring the baby is growing well,
gaining weight, and achieving developmental milestones.
Vaccinations: Ensuring that the baby receives the scheduled
vaccinations.
Developmental Milestones: Monitoring the baby's ability to
focus, move, and respond to stimuli.
Safety Practices: Educating parents about car seat safety,
preventing falls, and safe sleep environments.
4.
Counseling and Education
Family Planning: Discussing options for contraception and birth
spacing.
Mental Health Awareness: Emphasizing the importance of
mental well-being and encouraging women to seek help if they
experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, or depression.
Postpartum Exercise: Encouraging light exercises, pelvic floor
strengthening, and returning to regular activity in a gradual and
safe manner.
5.
Follow-Up Appointments
Mother's Health Check-Up: Ensuring that any complications
such as infections, bleeding, or prolonged pain are identified and
addressed.