What postoperative assessment is critical after a C-section?

Monitoring the fundus and the skin incision after a C-section is critical because it provides essential information about the woman's postpartum recovery.

After a cesarean delivery, it is important to assess the uterine fundus to ensure that it is firm and at the appropriate level, typically at the level of the umbilicus shortly after birth. A boggy or poorly contracted fundus could indicate uterine atony, which is a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage. This assessment helps in identifying potential complications early.

Simultaneously, evaluating the skin incision is essential for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. C-section incisions are prone to infections due to the surgical nature of the delivery. Close monitoring can help detect any issues that may arise, allowing for prompt treatment and reducing risks of further complications.

While other assessments like gastrointestinal function, blood glucose levels, and dietary intake are important, they do not carry the same immediate significance concerning maternal safety and immediate post-operative recovery as monitoring the fundus and the incision site.