Unit 49

1. Unit 49 Obstetrical Patients and Neonates

2. Objectives • Spell and define terms. • Assist in the prenatal care of the normal pregnant woman. • List reportable observations of patients in the prenatal period.

3. 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.

4. Objectives • Recognize reportable observations of patients in the postpartum period. • Recognize reportable signs and symptoms of urine retention in the postpartum patient.

5. 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.

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

7. 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.

8. Introduction • There are three phases of pregnancy. • The nursing assistant, who is specially trained, helps provide care and support throughout each phase.

9. 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 obstetricalclinic.

10. 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

11. Preparation for Birth • It prepares the parents to participate in the birthing process • Many patients choose to participate in natural childbirth

12. The Doula • Doula • Derived from Greek • “Woman’s servant”

13. 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

14. The Doula • A postpartum doula • Helps care for the infant • Teaches the mother about nutrition, breastfeeding, and infant care

15. Cesarean Birth • Cesareansection 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.

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

17. 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

18. Postpartum Care • Always wear gloves • Follow standard precautions when caring for the postpartum patient

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. Security • Wear your identification badge in a visible place • Identify yourself each time you enter the mothers’ rooms