Relias Nursing Care of Patient with Obstetric (OB) & Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) Assessment Practice Test

A "boggy" uterus in a postpartum patient is indicative of uterine atony, which is a condition where the uterus fails to contract effectively after childbirth. This lack of tone can lead to excessive bleeding, known as postpartum hemorrhage. In the postpartum period, the uterus should feel firm and well-contracted to effectively compress the blood vessels that were attached to the placenta. When the uterus is described as "boggy," it suggests that it is not contracting properly, which could lead to significant complications if not addressed promptly.

Uterine atony is the most common cause of early postpartum hemorrhage, making it critical for healthcare providers to assess uterine tone regularly after delivery. Effective interventions, such as uterine massage or medications like oxytocin, can help stimulate uterine contractions and restore appropriate tone, thus preventing further complications for the patient.