Parturients Health Education: It's Effect on Post Cesarean Section Complications

Abstract

Pregnancy is considered a normal physiological process, but sometimes due to many factors, intervention is needed to accomplish the process of labor and delivery. One of these interventions is cesarean section (CS) which means an operative procedure whereby fetus (es), are delivered through an incision on the abdominal and uterine wall, (Wanyony, S.Z. and Karuga, R.A, 2010). The number of parturient having babies delivered by cesarean section is growing rapidly in both developed and developing countries. Cesarean section rate 32.8% In Egypt the cesarean section rate 26.2%, (khawaja et al, 2009). In Ain Shames University maternity hospital three in ten parturient give birth by cesarean section, (Statistical Department, 2011). This escalating rate may be a public health problem since cesarean section increases the risk for mothers and babies as well as the cost of health care as compared with normal deliveries, (khawaja et al, 2009). Acute or chronic complications are experienced by 25-50 percent of the cesarean parturient compared to parturient who have undergone vaginal delivery. Maternal mortality rate is 2- 4 times higher for C.S, (Parvez.T, 2006). Lack of knowledge regarding post-natal care may lead the mother to wide range of postpartum problems. Common problems experienced by the mothers include postpartum infections, including uterine, bladder, or kidney infections, excessive bleeding after delivery, pain in the incision area, vaginal discharge, breast problems such as swollen breasts, infection and clogged ducts, marks, hemorrhoids and constipation, urinary or fecal incontinence, depression, discomfort during sex etc., (Kuckyt C. , 2006). The role of community health nurse in primary level of prevention involves promoting knowledge and skills of cesarean section parturient (Ayers et al, 2000). The goal of nursing action is to encourage continued health maintenance through self-care. Identify gaps of knowledge and review those points The role of community health nurse in minimizing complication after cesarean section involves, Pregnancy classes in areas where community-based, prenatal classes, one-to-one and group prenatal teaching and support for individuals that have specific needs, Prenatal teaching in school-based programs for pregnant adolescents and in Pregnancy outreach programs and Provision of pamphlets, brochures, books and videos and other resources on pregnancy, and parenting. (Ayers el al, 2009).