Unit 49

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved.

Unit 49

Obstetrical Patients and Neonates


Objectives

• Spell and define terms.• Assist in the prenatal care of the normal

pregnant woman.• List reportable observations of patients

in the prenatal period.


Objectives

• Define “doula” and identify the role and responsibilities of the doula as a member of the childbirth team.

• Assist in care of the normal postpartum patient.

• Properly change a perineal pad.


Objectives

• Recognize reportable observations of patients in the postpartum period.

• Recognize reportable signs and symptoms of urine retention in the postpartum patient.


Objectives

• Assist in care of the normal newborn.• Demonstrate three methods of safely

holding a baby.• List measures to prevent inadvertent

switching, misidentification, and abduction of infants.


Objectives

• Assist in carrying out the discharge procedures for mother and infant.


Introduction

• When a baby is ready to be born– It is normally upside down in the mother’s

uterus with its head toward the birth canal. • After the baby is born and separated

from the umbilical cord– Placenta, amniotic sac, and remaining cord

are expelled as the afterbirth.


Introduction

• There are three phases of pregnancy.• The nursing assistant, who is specially

trained, helps provide care and support throughout each phase.


Prenatal Care

• The care of the mother begins in the prenatal period– When she first learns she is pregnant.

• You may meet her as you work in a doctor’s office or in an obstetrical clinic.


Preparation for Birth

• Both parents are encouraged to participate fully in the birth of their baby

• Special training for the birth begins in the prenatal period


Preparation for Birth

• It prepares the parents to participate in the birthing process

• Many patients choose to participate in natural childbirth


The Doula

• Doula – Derived from Greek– “Woman’s servant”


The Doula

• Birth doula– Trained and experienced to provide

support and nurtures the mother before, during and just after childbirth

– Helps with communication between the parents and the medical professionals


The Doula

• A postpartum doula – Helps care for the infant – Teaches the mother about nutrition,

breastfeeding, and infant care


Cesarean Birth

• Cesarean section is another way of delivering a baby.

• Baby is delivered through an incision in the abdomen rather than through the birth canal.

• Between 20 and 30 percent of all births in the United States occur this way.


Postpartum Care

• You may be assigned to assist in caring for the mother during the postpartum period.


Postpartum Care

• With other team members:– You will assist the mother from the

stretcher into bed– A protective pad may be placed under the

patient’s buttocks


Postpartum Care

• Always wear gloves– Follow standard precautions when caring

for the postpartum patient


Breast Care

• Even if the mother chooses not to breast-feed– Her breasts should be washed daily with

soap and water. • Breasts should be supported

continuously by a well-fitted brassiere.• Medications to suppress milk production

are sometimes ordered.


Security

• All infants are identified to prevent switching, misidentification, and abduction.

• Nurse will apply identification bands to the infant’s wrist and ankle while in the delivery room.

• The mother is given a matching wrist band.


Security

• Wear your identification badge in a visible place

• Identify yourself each time you enter the mothers’ rooms

Unit 49

Documents

Transcript of Unit 49