Typical day at the postpartum unit and precautions

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Hi, guys! I'm going to an agency assignment tomorrow as a new grad to postpartum unit. I've never worked a day in L&D and scared as heck.

Could someone please tell me what I'm looking forward to and what I need to look out for? I would like to know the progress of a typical day also. Thanks in advance for any advise. It would be a life saver!

It would feel so weird to sign RN next to my name now. Sorta excited to... :chuckle Since this is a case I used to have as a LVN, I wonder if other shift LVNs would think I'm trying to show off or something. :uhoh3: But I'm sure they know me by now (I've been doing that case for over a year 1/2) and won't think anything of it.

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.
It would feel so weird to sign RN next to my name now. Sorta excited to... :chuckle Since this is a case I used to have as a LVN, I wonder if other shift LVNs would think I'm trying to show off or something. :uhoh3: But I'm sure they know me by now (I've been doing that case for over a year 1/2) and won't think anything of it.

It's not a matter of showing off. It's a matter of properly identifying yourself according to the terms of your State Nurse Practice Act, and then performing to the standards required by your education and licensure.

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I completely agree with you. :)

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Specializes in RN Education, OB, ED, Administration.

A good thing to remember for postpartum assessment is BUBBLE HE:

B- Breasts: nipples sore, cracking, etc.

U- Uterus: fundus.. midline, firm, at what level in relation to the umbilicus..

B- Bladder: Can you void, burning or pain, etc.

B- Bowel: BM... I shudder to think! OUCH! Bowel sounds after a section.

L- Lochia: Typically rubra; flow: scant, small, moderate; no foul odor, etc.

E- Episiotomy- approximated, clear

H- Homan's

E- Emotions

AND... Lord, don't forget PAIN!

Cheers!

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Specializes in NICU.

You should sign your name with the RN title. I also think that since you do hold an RN license, you would be expected to perform to the scope of an RN. You also deserve to be paid as an RN if you will be expected to perform as one.

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Thank you for the great advice, SheaTab. It's really a great way to assess post partum patients!

Congrats on your baby girl to be, KRVRN!

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