NURS 3112 Study Guide - Final Guide: Postpartum Depression, Ecchymosis, Episiotomy
23 Jun 2017
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Document Summary
The postpartum blues consist of a transient period of depression that occurs during the first few days of puerperium. Symptoms may include mood swings, anger, weepiness, anorexia,difficulty sleeping, and a feeling of letdown. This mood change frequently occurs while the woman is still hospitalized, but it may occur at home as well. Changing hormone levels are certainly a factor; an unsupportive environment and insecurity also have been identified as potential causes. In addition, fatigue, discomfort, and overstimulation may play a part. The postpartum blues usually resolve naturally within 10 to 14 days, but if they persist or if symptoms worsen, the woman may need evaluation for postpartum depression . Ideally a depression assessment should be completed each trimester to update a pregnant woman"s risk status. If not done previously, the nurse assesses the woman for predisposing factors during labor and the postpartum stay. Several depression scales are available for assessing postpartum depression.
