👩‍🍼 POSTNATAL CARE (PNC) PROCEDURE

1. Definition

• Postnatal care is the care provided to the mother and newborn immediately after delivery up to 6 weeks (puerperium period) to ensure recovery and prevent complications.

2. Purpose

• To promote recovery of the mother

• To ensure health and growth of the newborn

• To detect and manage postpartum complications early

• To provide health education and family planning advice

3. Indications

• All mothers after delivery

• Hospital and home visits

• High-risk postnatal cases

4. Contraindications

⚠️ No contraindication (essential care for all mothers)

5. Articles / Equipment

🧰 Equipment:

• BP apparatus

• Thermometer

• Stethoscope

🧴 Supplies:

• Gloves

• Perineal care items

• Sanitary pads

📋 Records:

• Postnatal record chart

• Mother and child card

6. Patient Preparation

• Explain procedure to mother

• Ensure privacy

• Position mother comfortably

• Maintain cleanliness

7. Procedure Steps (Step-by-Step Sentences)

1. Wash hands and greet the mother politely.

2. Check identification and review delivery records.

3. Assess general condition of the mother.

4. Measure vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure).

5. Inspect breasts for engorgement, cracks, or infection.

6. Assess breastfeeding technique and support mother.

7. Examine abdomen for uterine involution (fundal height).

8. Check lochia for amount, color, and odor.

9. Inspect perineum or episiotomy wound for healing.

10. Assess urinary and bowel function.

11. Observe for signs of complications such as fever, bleeding, or pain.

12. Assess emotional status of the mother.

13. Examine the newborn for general condition and feeding.

14. Provide necessary medications if prescribed.

15. Educate mother about hygiene, diet, and newborn care.

16. Advise on family planning methods.

17. Record all findings in postnatal record.

18. Wash hands after completing the procedure.

8. Post Procedure Care

• Ensure comfort of mother and baby

• Encourage rest and nutrition

• Continue breastfeeding support

• Plan follow-up visits

9. Complications

• Postpartum hemorrhage

• Infection (puerperal sepsis)

• Breast engorgement or mastitis

• Postpartum depression

10. Health Education

• Maintain personal hygiene

• Take balanced diet

• Continue exclusive breastfeeding

• Proper perineal care

• Recognize danger signs:

  • Excessive bleeding

  • Fever

  • Severe abdominal pain

• Follow-up visits are important

🎯 Viva Questions

Q1. What is postnatal period?👉 Up to 6 weeks after delivery

Q2. What is lochia?👉 Vaginal discharge after delivery

Q3. What is uterine involution?👉 Return of uterus to normal size