Following this activity, learners will be able to perform the following functions in the areas listed.

Family Centered Care
•    Describe the core principles of family-centered care and their importance in postpartum nursing. 
•    Demonstrate the ability to assess family dynamics and support systems in the postpartum period.
•    Explain the roles and responsibilities of parents in the postpartum period, including physical and emotional adjustments.
•    Identify common challenges faced by new parents and strategies to support their adaptation to parenthood.

Review of Systems
•    Describe the normal physiological changes that occur in the postpartum period, including uterine involution, lochia changes, and hormonal fluctuations.
•    Analyze the physiological adaptations that facilitate maternal recovery, including changes in cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems.
•    Apply knowledge of postpartum pathophysiology to develop appropriate nursing interventions and care plans for postpartum women.

PP Assessment
•    Identify normal versus abnormal findings during the postpartum assessment and their clinical significance.
•    Demonstrate the skills needed to perform a thorough physical assessment of postpartum patients, focusing on vital signs, uterine involution, lochia, and perineal healing.
•    Explain the significance of a head-to-toe physical assessment in postpartum care, including the identification of normal recovery patterns and early detection of complication.

Handoff
•     Explain the significance of effective handoff communication in ensuring continuity of care, patient safety, and minimizing the risk of errors in the postpartum setting. 
•    Demonstrate proficiency in using standardized handoff tools (e.g., SBAR: Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) to organize and communicate essential patient information.
•    Reflect on personal handoff experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement, seeking feedback from peers to enhance communication skills.

Vaginal Care
•    Perform thorough postpartum assessments, focusing on vital signs, uterine firmness, perineal healing, and signs of potential complications (e.g., infection, hemorrhage). 
•    Promote early ambulation and physical activity for postpartum patients, explaining the benefits for recovery and prevention of complications such as thromboembolism. 
•    Accurately document all assessments, interventions, and patient education in the medical record, ensuring clear communication among healthcare team members.
•    Identify common sources of pain and discomfort in postpartum patients and implement appropriate pain management strategies, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.

PP C/S Care
•    Describe the physiological changes and recovery process following a cesarean section, including incision healing, uterine involution, and pain management. 
•    Perform thorough assessments of postpartum patients after a cesarean delivery, focusing on vital signs, incision site condition, abdominal assessment, and overall recovery.
•    Encourage safe ambulation and mobility for cesarean patients, explaining the importance of early movement for recovery and prevention of complications.

IV Starts
•    Assess and select an appropriate venipuncture site based on patient factors, vein visibility, and accessibility. 
•    Recognize and manage potential complications associated with IV insertion, such as infiltration, phlebitis, and air embolism. 
•    Participate in hands-on practice sessions using simulation or manikins to develop proficiency and confidence in IV insertion techniques.

Foley Catheters
•    Participate in hands-on practice sessions using simulation or manikins to develop proficiency and confidence in Foley catheter insertion techniques.
•    Describe the relevant anatomy and physiology of the urinary system to understand catheter placement and function.
•    Demonstrate the step-by-step technique for inserting a Foley catheter, including: preparing the patient and environment, positioning the patient appropriately for insertion.

•    Cleaning the insertion site using aseptic technique.
•    Inserting the catheter to the correct depth and securing it properly.

Post Birth Warning Signs 
•    Recognize and list the critical warning signs that may indicate complications in postpartum patients, including:heavy vaginal bleeding (hemorrhage), severe abdominal pain, signs of infection (fever, foul-smelling lochia), symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (leg swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath), emotional distress (anxiety, depression). 
•    Develop effective communication strategies to educate postpartum patients and their families about warning signs to watch for after discharge.
•    Outline appropriate nursing interventions and actions to take when warning signs are identified, including when to escalate care or refer to a healthcare provider.

Hemorrhage & QBL
•    Identify clinical signs and symptoms of postpartum hemorrhage, such as changes in vital signs, amount and characteristics of bleeding, and uterine tone.
•    Explain the concept of quantitative blood loss (QBL) and its importance in assessing the severity of postpartum hemorrhage.
•    Outline immediate nursing interventions for managing postpartum hemorrhage, including fundal massage, medication administration (e.g., oxytocin), and fluid resuscitation.

Blood Administration
•    Identify the criteria for blood transfusions in postpartum patients, including signs of postpartum hemorrhage, anemia, and the patient’s hemoglobin levels.
•    Explain the institutional policies and evidence-based guidelines for blood transfusion, including pre-transfusion checks and consent processes.
•    Conduct a thorough assessment of the patient prior to transfusion, including reviewing medical history, current medications, vital signs, and laboratory results.
•    Demonstrate the proper techniques for preparing and verifying blood products for transfusion, including checking blood type and crossmatch results against the patient’s identification.
•    Identify the signs and symptoms of potential transfusion reactions (e.g., fever, chills, itching, shortness of breath) and demonstrate appropriate nursing interventions in response.

IV Iron Administration
•    Explain the indications for IV iron transfusions in postpartum patients, particularly in the context of treating iron deficiency anemia due to postpartum hemorrhage or insufficient oral iron intake.
•    Identify contraindications for IV iron therapy, such as known hypersensitivity to iron preparations, and recognize patient factors that may require special considerations.
•    Describe the various types of IV iron formulations (e.g., iron sucrose, ferric gluconate, ferric carboxymaltose) and their respective dosing regimens, including differences in administration rates and side effects.
•    Demonstrate the proper techniques for preparing the IV iron product for administration, including checking compatibility, diluting if necessary, and selecting appropriate IV access.
•    Recognize potential adverse reactions associated with IV iron transfusions, such as allergic reactions, hypotension, and infusion site reactions, and demonstrate appropriate nursing interventions.

Jada System
•    Describe the components and functioning of the Jada Vacuum System, including its purpose in managing postpartum hemorrhage and uterine atony.
•    Explain the mechanism by which the Jada Vacuum System helps control bleeding, including its role in providing uterine compression and facilitating uterine involution.

Postpartum Complications
•    Identify the key signs and symptoms associated with each postpartum complication, enabling early detection and timely intervention.
•    Identify signs of postpartum infections, such as endometritis and wound infections, and demonstrate appropriate nursing interventions, including antibiotic administration and monitoring.
•    Apply evidence-based protocols for the prevention and management of postpartum complications, ensuring adherence to best practices in clinical care.

Sepsis
•    Describe what sepsis is, including the criteria for its diagnosis and the differences between sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock.
•    Identify the specific risk factors for developing sepsis in postpartum patients, including cesarean delivery, prolonged labor, and existing maternal health conditions.
•    Recognize the early signs and symptoms of sepsis in postpartum patients, such as fever, tachycardia, hypotension, altered mental status, and signs of infection.
•    Discuss the importance of early intervention in sepsis management and outline the initial nursing interventions, such as initiating sepsis protocols, obtaining cultures, and administering IV fluids and antibiotics.
•    Recognize potential complications associated with sepsis, including organ dysfunction and the need for advanced interventions, and demonstrate appropriate nursing responses.
•    Accurately document assessments, interventions, and patient responses in the medical record, ensuring clear communication with the healthcare team.

Preeclampsia
•    Recognize the clinical signs and symptoms of preeclampsia, including hypertension, proteinuria, edema, and symptoms of severe preeclampsia (e.g., headache, visual disturbances).
•    Outline appropriate nursing interventions for managing patients with preeclampsia, including monitoring vital signs, administering medications (e.g., antihypertensives, magnesium sulfate), and educating patients about signs of worsening conditions.
•    Apply evidence-based guidelines for the management and follow-up of patients with preeclampsia in the postpartum period.

Magnesium Sulfate Administration
•    Describe the indications for administering magnesium sulfate in postpartum patients, including its use for preventing and treating eclampsia and managing severe hypertension.
•    Conduct comprehensive assessments of the patient prior to administration, including baseline vital signs, neurological status, and renal function.
•    Execute the steps for safe administration of magnesium sulfate, including IV infusion techniques and monitoring for adverse effects.
•    Identify therapeutic effects, such as seizure prevention, and monitor for potential adverse reactions, including respiratory depression, hypotension, and signs of magnesium toxicity.
•    Identify therapeutic effects, such as seizure prevention, and monitor for potential adverse reactions, including respiratory depression, hypotension, and signs of magnesium toxicity.

Deep Tendon Reflexes
•    Identify specific scenarios in which assessing deep tendon reflexes is indicated for postpartum patients, such as evaluating for signs of magnesium toxicity or neurological deficits.
•    Demonstrate proper patient positioning and preparation techniques to ensure a comfortable and accurate reflex assessment.

Cultural Considerations
•    Identify the diverse cultural backgrounds of postpartum patients and their unique beliefs, practices, and values related to childbirth, postpartum recovery, and infant care.
•    Recognize potential barriers to care that may arise from cultural differences, including language barriers, differing health beliefs, and access to resources.
•    Demonstrate skills for conducting culturally sensitive assessments that respect patients’ cultural backgrounds, preferences, and needs.

Tox Screening
•    Identify specific situations and risk factors that warrant toxicology screenings, such as maternal substance use history, clinical signs of withdrawal in infants, or concerns about environmental exposure.
•    Describe the various methods of toxicology screening available (e.g., urine, blood, meconium) and their respective advantages and limitations.
•    Develop strategies for effectively communicating the purpose and process of toxicology screenings to mothers and their families, addressing any concerns or questions.

Child Abuse
•    Understand the physical, emotional, and behavioral indicators of child abuse in infants and children, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional maltreatment.
•    Learn the legal requirements and ethical considerations for reporting suspected child abuse, including understanding mandated reporting laws and the importance of timely reporting.
•    Recognize the role of interdisciplinary teams in addressing child abuse, including collaboration with social workers, pediatricians, and law enforcement.

PP Mood Disorders
•    Understand the different types of postpartum mood disorders, including postpartum depression (PPD), postpartum anxiety, postpartum psychosis, and baby blues.
•    Learn to identify the signs and symptoms of postpartum mood disorders in new mothers, including emotional, physical, and behavioral indicators.
•    Develop skills in conducting effective screenings and assessments for postpartum mood disorders using validated tools and questionnaires.
•    Understand the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing postpartum mood disorders, including working with mental health professionals.

Selfcare & Compassion Fatigue
•    Identify the signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue, including emotional exhaustion, decreased empathy, irritability, and reduced job satisfaction.
•    Emphasize the importance of self-care in maintaining mental and emotional well-being, and its role in preventing compassion fatigue.
•    Encourage the establishment of peer support networks and debriefing sessions to share experiences and provide mutual support among colleagues.

Newborn Care & Assessment
•    Learn to assess and monitor newborn vital signs, growth parameters, and overall health, recognizing early signs of potential complications.
•    Teach parents about daily newborn care routines, including bathing, diapering, cord care, and maintaining hygiene.
•    Identify normal newborn behaviors, such as feeding cues, sleep patterns, and reflexes, to provide appropriate guidance to parents.

Newborn Handling & Swaddling
•    Learn proper techniques for safely handling and positioning newborns, including supporting the head and neck, and transitioning between different holds.

Heel Sticks
•    Familiarize with the anatomy of the infant’s heel, including the location of blood vessels and the safest sites for heel sticks to minimize discomfort and complications.
•    Understand and implement proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene, use of gloves, and cleaning the heel site prior to the procedure.
•    Develop the ability to explain the procedure and its purpose to parents, addressing their concerns and providing reassurance.

IM Injections
•    Recognize the clinical reasons for administering IM injections in newborns, such as vaccination, administration of vitamin K, or antibiotics.
•    Familiarize with the anatomy of newborn muscles, including appropriate injection sites (e.g., vastus lateralis) and their landmarks to ensure safe and effective administration.
•    Master the proper techniques for preparing and administering IM injections, including selecting the appropriate needle size, and angle of injection.
•    Encourage a supportive and calm environment for both the newborn and the parents during the procedure to enhance overall comfort and cooperation.

Newborn Abnormalities
•    Recognize and describe common congenital and acquired abnormalities in newborns, including conditions such as congenital heart defects, cleft lip and/or palate, and neurological disorders.

Neonatal Complications
•    Recognize and describe common neonatal complications, such as respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, infections, and feeding difficulties.
•    Develop skills to perform comprehensive assessments of neonates, recognizing signs and symptoms indicative of potential complications.
•    Learn to accurately monitor vital signs, growth parameters, and laboratory values to detect changes that may indicate complications.

Neonatal Hypoglycemia
•    Identify the clinical signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia in neonates, such as jitteriness, lethargy, poor feeding, and respiratory distress.
•    Familiarize with the recommended screening protocols for at-risk infants, including when and how often to monitor blood glucose levels.
•    Learn to navigate and apply institutional policies and algorithms for the identification, assessment, and management of neonatal hypoglycemia.
•    Understand the appropriate interventions for managing hypoglycemia, including feeding protocols, oral glucose administration, and ongoing monitoring.

Newborn Respiratory Distress
•    Identify the clinical signs of respiratory distress in newborns, including tachypnea, retractions, grunting, nasal flaring, and cyanosis.
•    Develop skills to perform thorough respiratory assessments, including auscultation of lung sounds, monitoring respiratory rate, and evaluating overall oxygenation.
•    Learn to accurately monitor vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation levels using pulse oximetry.
•    Recognize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the management of respiratory distress, including working with pediatricians, respiratory therapists, and nursing staff.

Newborn Screening
•    Learn the recommended guidelines and protocols for conducting each type of screening, including timing and methods used.
•    Develop skills to effectively communicate the importance and procedures of each screening to parents, addressing their concerns and ensuring they understand follow-up processes.

Perinatal Loss
•    Develop skills to offer empathetic and sensitive care to grieving parents, ensuring that they feel heard, supported, and respected throughout the process.
•    Learn effective communication techniques for discussing perinatal loss with parents, including how to deliver bad news compassionately and answer questions.
•    Understand how to guide parents in making informed decisions regarding their care and the care of their baby, including options for memorialization and post-mortem care.
•    Familiarize with available resources, including grief support groups, counseling services, and literature for families dealing with perinatal loss.

Hyperbilirubinemia
•    Define hyperbilirubinemia and recognize its causes, including physiological and pathological factors, and the significance of bilirubin levels in newborns.
•    Familiarize with risk factors associated with hyperbilirubinemia, such as prematurity, blood type incompatibility, and breastfeeding issues.
•    Learn to identify clinical signs of hyperbilirubinemia, including jaundice, lethargy, poor feeding, and changes in stool color.
•    Develop skills to assess bilirubin levels using appropriate methods, including transcutaneous bilirubinometers and serum bilirubin tests.
•    Learn the management protocols for hyperbilirubinemia, including monitoring bilirubin levels, determining treatment thresholds, and when to initiate treatment.

Transition to Parenthood
•    Develop skills to assess the individual support needs of new parents, including emotional, informational, and practical assistance, and identify potential barriers to support.
•    Develop effective communication skills to engage with new parents, addressing their concerns, answering questions, and providing reassurance during the transition.
•    Educate parents on newborn care, infant development, and parenting strategies, ensuring they have accurate and relevant information to make informed decisions.

Breastfeeding
•    Recognize the nutritional, immunological, and emotional benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.
•    Master various breastfeeding positions (e.g., cradle hold, football hold, side-lying) to help mothers find comfortable and effective ways to breastfeed.
•    Develop skills to assess and support a proper latch, including techniques for helping mothers achieve a good latch and identifying signs of an ineffective latch.
•    Understand the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and communicate the recommendations from health organizations.
•    Learn the guidelines for safely preparing and storing infant formula, including hygiene practices and understanding the differences between breastmilk and formula.
•    Familiarize with the different types of breast pumps, how to properly use and clean them, and the benefits of expressing milk for both feeding and comfort.
•    Understand the guidelines for the use of donor breastmilk, including safety considerations and resources for accessing human milk banks.
•    Recognize common breastfeeding challenges, such as sore nipples, engorgement, low milk supply, and difficulties with feeding, and learn strategies to address these issues.

Discharge Education
•    Recognize the clinical criteria for safe discharge of both the mother and newborn, including assessment of vital signs, physical recovery, and newborn health.
•    Educate parents on postpartum care for the mother, including signs of complications (e.g., infection, hemorrhage), self-care practices, and emotional well-being.
•    Be able to teach parents essential newborn care practices, including bathing, diapering, feeding, and safe sleep recommendations.
•    Emphasize the importance of scheduling and attending postpartum and pediatric follow-up appointments, explaining what to expect during these visits.