Component Task: Pre and Post-Operative Management of the Mother (Caesarean Section): Subsequent Care

This is the care rendered by the midwife to a client before and after an emergency or a planned caesarean section.

Aims

·         Prevent complications in pregnancy

·         Prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity/mortality

Requirements

·         Operation bed

·         Vital signs tray

·         Wound dressing tray

·         Disposable gloves

·         Sterile gloves

·         Intravenous cannula

·         Intravenous fluids

·         Prescribed Medications

·         Antiseptic Lotion

·         Patient’ s Records

·         Suction apparatus

·         Drip stand

Steps

1.        Monitor temperature, pulse, respiration and blood pressure 4 hourly

2.      Inspect breast for lactation and abnormalities

3.      Inspect upper limbs for oedema and pallor

4.      Inspect lochia for amount, colour and consistency

5.      Monitor input, output fluids and bowel movements

6.      Encourage her to eat nutritious diet of her choice

7.       Change dressing and remove stitches according to doctor’s directives

8.      Encourage early ambulation by 1st and 2nd day post operations

9.      Encourage exclusive breastfeeding10. Encourage warm sitz baths

10.    Counsel on personal hygiene (Bed bath, vulval toileting, perineal care, frequent hand hygiene, rest and sleep, bowel and bladder movement)

11.      Observe infection prevention measures according to IPC guidelines

12.    Administer medications as per chart

13.    Counsel mother before discharge

14.    Record all observations, procedures and progress in Maternal and Child Health Record Book (Manual/Electronic)