4 Postpartum Emergencies Free Online FlashCards

What defines postpartum hemorrhage within 24 hours of birth?

Postpartum hemorrhage is blood loss of at least 1,000 mL, or bleeding with signs of low blood volume, within 24 hours after birth.

Why is a retained placenta dangerous?

A retained placenta has not been delivered after the baby is born. It can prevent the uterus from contracting and cause severe bleeding, so skilled obstetric assessment is needed.

What signs may indicate postpartum infection?

Warning signs include a temperature of at least $100.4^\circ\text{F}$ \(38^\circ\text{C}), chills, worsening abdominal or pelvic pain, uterine tenderness, foul-smelling discharge, or a red, painful, draining wound.

Can postpartum sepsis occur without a fever?

Sepsis is a medical emergency and may cause fast breathing or heartbeat, confusion, severe weakness or pain, low blood pressure, reduced urination, or cold, clammy, pale, or mottled skin. Fever may be absent.

When can postpartum preeclampsia occur?

Postpartum preeclampsia can occur even without high blood pressure during pregnancy. It often develops within days after birth but can occur up to six weeks later.

What symptoms may indicate a postpartum deep-vein thrombosis?

One-sided leg pain, swelling, warmth, or redness may indicate deep-vein thrombosis.

Which new symptoms may signal a postpartum cardiac complication?

New severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or difficulty breathing when lying flat needs urgent assessment because it may signal a serious heart or lung problem.

Which postpartum symptoms warrant calling emergency services?

Call emergency services for severe bleeding, fainting, confusion, trouble breathing, chest pain, seizures, or signs of shock.

What are the 4 Ts of postpartum hemorrhage?

The 4 Ts are Tone, Trauma, Tissue, and Thrombin: poor uterine contraction, injury, retained placental tissue, and a clotting problem.

What is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage?

Uterine atony, when the uterus does not contract firmly after birth, is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.

What can retained placental fragments cause later?

Retained placental fragments can cause bleeding or infection days or weeks after birth.

Which warning signs of postpartum preeclampsia need immediate evaluation?

Severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal or shoulder pain, shortness of breath, or blood pressure of $160/110\ \text{mm Hg}$ or higher requires immediate evaluation.