Maternity Nursing: Postpartum Q 55
The following are the physiological maternal changes that occur during the PP period. Select all that apply.
A. Cervical involution occurs.
B. Vaginal distention decreases slowly.
C. Fundus begins to descend into the pelvis after 24 hours.
D. Cardiac output decreases with resultant tachycardia in the first 24 hours.
E. Digestive processes slow immediately.
Correct Answers: A and C. In the PP period, cervical healing occurs rapidly and cervical involution occurs.
After 1 week the muscle begins to regenerate and the cervix feels firm and the external os, is the width of a pencil. The fundus begins to descent into the pelvic cavity after 24 hours, a process known as involution.
Option B: Although the vaginal mucosa heals and vaginal distention decreases, it takes the entire PP period for complete involution to occur and muscle tone is never restored to the pregravid state.
Option D: Despite blood loss that occurs during delivery of the baby, a transient increase in cardiac output occurs. The increase in cardiac output, which persists about 48 hours after childbirth, is probably caused by an increase in stroke volume because Bradycardia is often noted during the PP period.
Option E: Soon after childbirth, digestion begins to begin to be active, and the new mother is usually hungry because of the energy expended during labor.