NARM Postpartum Care 3

Question 1

Which screening tool is most widely validated and recommended for postpartum depression screening in midwifery practice?

Accepted Answer

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

Answer

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is the most widely used and validated screening tool specifically designed and normed for the postpartum population.

Question 2

A breastfeeding mother on postpartum day 4 presents with hard, warm, bilaterally painful, and engorged breasts. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Breast engorgement associated with milk coming in

Answer

Bilateral breast engorgement is common on days 3–5 postpartum when mature milk production begins; it is distinguished from mastitis by its bilateral presentation, absence of systemic fever, and timing.

Question 3

Which combination of findings is most consistent with postpartum endometritis?

Accepted Answer

Uterine tenderness on palpation, fever above 38°C, and foul-smelling lochia

Answer

Postpartum endometritis classically presents with uterine tenderness, fever (>38°C), and malodorous lochia and requires prompt antibiotic treatment.

Question 4

Which postpartum complication is defined as failure of the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size at the expected rate?

Accepted Answer

Uterine subinvolution

Answer

Subinvolution is the failure of normal uterine involution; it is often caused by retained placental fragments, uterine infection, or uterine fibroids, and presents with a uterus larger than expected for the postpartum day.

Question 5

What is the generally recommended minimum interval before resuming vaginal intercourse following an uncomplicated vaginal birth?

Accepted Answer

4–6 weeks postpartum to allow perineal healing and cervical closure

Answer

Most providers recommend waiting at least 4–6 weeks postpartum before resuming intercourse to allow adequate healing of perineal tissues and cervical closure, reducing infection risk.

(NARM) North American Registry of Midwives Practice Test

(NARM) North American Registry of Midwives Practice Test

NARM Postpartum Care 3