Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Unit 49 Obstetrical Patients and Neonates

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives Spell and define terms. Assist in the prenatal care of the normal pregnant woman. List reportable observations of patients in the prenatal period.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives Recognize reportable observations of patients in the postpartum period. Recognize reportable signs and symptoms of urine retention in the postpartum patient.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives Assist in carrying out the discharge procedures for mother and infant.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Introduction There are three phases of pregnancy. The nursing assistant, who is specially trained, helps provide care and support throughout each phase.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Preparation for Birth It prepares the parents to participate in the birthing process Many patients choose to participate in natural childbirth

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. The Doula Doula –Derived from Greek – “Woman’s servant”

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. The Doula A postpartum doula –Helps care for the infant –Teaches the mother about nutrition, breastfeeding, and infant care

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Postpartum Care You may be assigned to assist in caring for the mother during the postpartum period.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Postpartum Care Always wear gloves –Follow standard precautions when caring for the postpartum patient

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. 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.

Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Security Wear your identification badge in a visible place Identify yourself each time you enter the mothers’ rooms