Postpartum Physiology
This hormone promotes uterine contractions and milk ejection
What is oxytocin?
Reflex causing arm extension and retraction when startled.
What is the Moro reflex?
Recommended position to prevent DVT in the immediate postpartum period.
What is early ambulation?
Safest newborn sleep position to prevent SIDS risk.
What is on the back?
Term for postpartum uterine infection.
What is endometritis?
This term describes the uterus returning to pre-pregnancy size.
What is involution?
Normal range for a newborn's respiratory rate.
What is 30-60 breaths per minute?
The best way to assess uterine firmness.
What is fundal palpation?
Vitamin given to newborns to prevent bleeding disorders.
What is Vitamin K?
Newborn condition caused by elevated bilirubin levels.
What is jaundice (hyperbilirubinemia)?
This type of lochia is expected within the first 1-3 postpartum days.
What is lochia rubra?
White pinpoint bumps on a newborn's nose.
What is milia?
Intervention to prevent nipple soreness during breastfeeding.
What is proper latch technique?
Recommended frequency of breastfeeding in the early days.
What is 8-12 times in a 24 hour period?
Most common cause of mastitis.
What is milk stasis?
This is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.
What is uterine atony?
Bluish discoloration in a newborn's hands and feet.
What is acrocyanosis?
Most concerning finding in lochia assessment.
What is heavy bleeding with clots?
Ideal time to initiate skin-to-skin contact after birth.
What is immediately after birth?
Term for depression lasting beyond 2 weeks after birth.
What is postpartum depression?
This early vital sign change may indicate hypovolemia.
What is tachycardia?
Score used to assess newborns at 1 and 5 minutes after birth.
What is the Apgar score?
Emotional instability in the first week postpartum.
What are the baby blues?
Term for feeding cues such as rooting and sucking motions.
What are newborn hunger cues?
Emergency condition with retained placenta and heavy bleeding.
What is postpartum hemorrhage?