Question

1. What is uterine atony? What are the priority actions when you suspect it?
2. You are caring for a patient postpartum who is reluctant to get up to empty her bladder, stating she doesn’t feel like she has to. How would you convince her it’s a good idea?

Answer 1

#. Uterine atony

Inability of the uterine muscle to adequately contract after birth causing postpartum hemorrhage.

External uterine massage and bimanual compression are the priority management used as first-line treatments. These compression techniques encourage uterine contractions that counteract atony and assist with expulsion of retained placenta or clots.

#. I will convince by explaining her it's importance .Postpartum urinary retention that remains unrecognised or poorly managed may lead to long-term voiding difficulty with recurrent urinary tract infection and ureteric reflux