Physiological Changes by System: In a Nutshell (Nursing)

00:01 So, in a nutshell, the uterus typically decreases by 1 cm per day.

00:08 And it's nonpalpable by 2 weeks postpartum.

00:12 Postpartum contractions or after birth pains get more intense with each pregnancy.

00:17 So a grand multip and a primer grabit are going to have slightly different experiences postpartum.

00:24 Lochia rubra is noted on days 1-3; serosa days 4-10; and alba, days 11-6 weeks postpartum.

00:35 The cervix remember has been really beat up and it remains edematous and soft until about day 3 postpartum.

00:43 The multiparous os or the opening in the cervix has a slit rather than a circle.

00:49 Colostrum is going to be usually present the first 3 days postpartum, and mature milk production is going to be enhanced by more feeding.

00:58 So the more frequent the baby feeds, the quicker the mature milk will come in.

01:03 Postpartum bradycardia may be noted down to 40 beats per minute.

01:09 The white blood cell count may increase up to 25,000 and still be normal.

01:15 But don't forget, always check for other signs of infection.

01:19 The hematocrit will drop depending on the amount of blood loss during delivery.

01:23 So if it starts to drop more than is normal, then we want to go back and double check that.

01:29 Prolactin levels are going to remain elevated in breastfeeding clients.

01:34 And ovulation may be delayed by breastfeeding up to 6 months, provided that the mother is not going longer than 6 hours between feeds.

01:43 Diuresis is normal after the first 12 hours postpartum.

01:48 A bowel movement may be delayed 2-3 days postpartum because of decreased peristalsis or emptying during labor or medication.

01:58 The rectus abdominis muscle returns to normal by about 6 weeks.

02:03 And 80% of clients experienced transient moments of feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

02:09 And remember, this should go away by 2 weeks postpartum.

02:14 Taking in is passive and the client or the client is passive and they're self focused.

02:20 Taking hold, the client is more independent and is starting to care for the baby independently.

02:26 And letting go, the client is usually hopeful and is fully embrace the baby and is ready for their new role in the family.

02:34 You did it.

02:36 All done.