A woman gave birth 12 hours ago.The patient complains of severe abdominal cramping when she breastfeeds her infant.The perinatal nurse should document this condition as which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Afterpains (afterbirth pains)are intermittent uterine contractions that occur during the process of involution.Afterpains are more pronounced in patients with decreased uterine tone due to overdistension,which is associated with multiparity and macrosomia.Breastfeeding and the administration of exogenous oxytocin usually produce pronounced afterpains because both cause powerful uterine contractions.Patients often describe the sensation as a discomfort similar to menstrual cramps.

A Woman Gave Birth 12 Hours Ago