Postpartum Case Study

Words: 932
Pages: 4

Postpartum Paper
This paper will discuss the health care needs and develop a teaching plan for patient D.G. Nurses have a responsibility to incorporate patient care education so the patient can make informed decisions regarding their care. By teaching a patient about their care, the nurse promotes learning which leads to a desired change (Potter, Perry, Hall, & Stockert, 2013). The goal of patient education is to empower the patient or family with information so they may improve their physical and psychological well-being.
Patient education includes three major purposes, maintenance and promotion of health and illness prevention, restoration of health, and coping with impaired function (Potter et al., 2013). The teaching plan follows the nursing
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The fetus is active, with no evidence of trauma, and no abruption of placenta (Perry & Crum, 2014). D.G. has abrasions and ecchymosis on both forearms and left lower abdomen (Perry & Crum, 2014). Fetal monitoring reflects a fetal heart rate of 130s, with average variability and accelerations (Perry & Crum, 2014). D.G. is experiencing mild contractions every 10-15 minutes lasting 20-30 seconds (Perry & Crum, 2014). D.G. is 1-2 cm dilated, 50% effaced, and -3 station (Perry & Crum, 2014). Patient states pain level is 2-3 of scale of 0-10. According to the patient’s chart, D.G. is Rh negative and received Rho (D) Immune Globulin during each of her pregnancies. She was treated for gonorrhea during her last pregnancy. Furthermore, D.G. is PPD negative, takes prenatal vitamins, and has no known …show more content…
These include fever greater than 100.4, increased amount of vaginal discharge including large clots, change to prior lochia color, and foul order. As well as, pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling of the abdomen, pelvic region, legs, breasts, and bloody painful urination (Perry, Hockenberry, Lowdermilk & Wilson, 2014). It is important for the patient to understand these complications and know when to notify their healthcare provider.
Education will also include perineal care including cleansing area from front to back with warm water. Patient will be breastfeeding. Patient will be instructed on proper latch techniques, position changes, and proper care and storage of breastmilk. As well as, care of the breasts to include hygiene, proper undergarment, engorgement, soreness, and nutrition.
The nurse will also educate D.G. on the community resources available for domestic violence victims. This will include information regarding Sunrise. Sunrise is a local resource to help victims of abuse find help. Some of the services Sunrise provides include emergency shelter, counseling, emergency hotline, legal services, and professional training (Sunrise,