AP and PP assessment guide .doc - Focused physical...

Focused physical assessment of the postpartum patient or the antepartum patient must be done in addition to other
physical examination components. For the postpartum patient use the mnemonic BUBBLEEHELE.
POSTPARTUM ASSESSMENT GUIDE
PHYSICAL EXAM
GENERAL - VS, including pain assessment, behavior, speech, mood/affect, IV status
SKIN - Color, temperature, moisture, texture, turgor, lesions, IV access site
CARDIAC - Apical pulse, capillary refill, pulses
RESPIRATORY - Chest symmetry, respiratory rate, depth and effort, breath sounds
POST ANESTHESIA RECOVERY status if applicable: sensation, strength and mobility
of lower extremities
BUBBLEEHELE
B BREAST – General examination for all postpartum mothers: observe and palpate for lumps, areas of
tenderness, redness, consistency.
Breast feeding mother: condition of nipples – type, color, blisters, fissures or cracks, secretion of colostrum
(oral report by mother), abnormal discharge.
Use of supportive bra or binder.