Postpartum Care Flashcards

Which finding indicates an infant has achieved an adequate breastfeeding latch?

Answer: The infant's mouth covers most of the areola with lips flanged outward

A proper latch is characterized by the infant's mouth covering most of the areola with lips flanged outward, ensuring effective milk transfer and preventing nipple trauma.

A postpartum client on day 3 reports increased bleeding after ambulating. What is the most appropriate initial action?

Answer: Assess fundal tone, quantify blood loss, and evaluate vital signs

Assessment of uterine tone, quantification of blood loss, and vital sign evaluation must precede any intervention to differentiate normal lochia variation from early postpartum hemorrhage.

A postpartum woman on day 5 is found to have a blood pressure of 154/98 mmHg with a headache. What condition should the midwife most suspect?

Answer: Postpartum preeclampsia requiring immediate evaluation and management

Postpartum preeclampsia can develop up to 6 weeks after delivery; a BP ≥140/90 mmHg with symptoms such as headache requires urgent evaluation and treatment.

Which finding in a postpartum perineal wound is most indicative of infection requiring treatment?

Answer: Purulent discharge, worsening pain, and separation of wound edges

Purulent discharge, escalating pain (rather than improving), and wound dehiscence are hallmark signs of perineal wound infection requiring antibiotic treatment and possible wound management.

Which contraceptive method is considered safe to initiate immediately postpartum in a breastfeeding woman?

Answer: Progestin-only pills (mini-pill)

Progestin-only methods do not suppress lactation and are safe to start immediately postpartum, whereas estrogen-containing contraceptives can reduce milk supply and are contraindicated in breastfeeding women until at least 6 weeks.

What Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score is the generally accepted threshold warranting further clinical evaluation?

Answer: Score of 10 or higher

An EPDS score of 10 or higher indicates possible postpartum depression and warrants further clinical assessment and follow-up by the midwife or referral.

According to NARM standards of practice, when should the first postpartum home visit occur after an uncomplicated home birth?

Answer: Within 24–48 hours of delivery

NARM standards require the attending midwife to conduct a home visit within 24–48 hours of delivery to assess maternal and newborn wellbeing and detect early complications.