WOUND INFECTION: EPISIOTOMY AND CESAREAN SECTION
PROBLEM
You have an infection of your episiotomy or vaginal laceration site or cesarean section incision.
CAUSE
The cause is one or more types of bacteria that invaded the tissue following your vaginal delivery or cesarean section. The bacteria may be from the vagina, the bowel, or the environment.
TREATMENT
A.Take your temperature if you have fever and chills.
B.Episiotomy::
1.Wash hands before and after changing your sanitary pads and your baby’s diaper.
2.Wipe or pat dry from front to back after every urination or bowel movement.
3.Apply and remove perineal pad from front to back.
4.Change perineal pad at least every 4 hours and after each voiding or bowel movement.
5.After you urinate or have a bowel movement, use a squeeze bottle to clean yourself. Position the nozzle between the legs, empty the entire bottle over the perineum, blot dry with toilet paper (do not rub) and avoid contamination from the anal area.
6.Sitz bath: This is a shallow warm bath that helps clean and heal the perineum. Take them at least twice a day for 5- to 10 minutes each. You do not need to add soap or any medication to the water. Pat the perineum dry with a soft cloth; do not rub.
7.Wash perineum with mild soap and warm water at least once daily.
8.Do not insert anything into your vagina until your six6-week postpartum exam. Sex can be painful and may reopen the wound. Do not use tampons or douche.
C.Cesarean section incision:
1.Wash hands before and after dressing change and wound care.
2.Follow all of the previous directions for your bleeding.
3.After showering, gently pat dry your abdomen.
4.If wound is draining, cover it with clean dressing and call the office for instructions. Otherwise, leave it open to air.
5.Clean incision with warm soapy water and pat dry.
6.If your incision opens, notify your practitioner for further instructions.
Activity: Increased rest is recommended; try to lie down for a nap when the baby goes to sleep.
Diet: There are no dietary restrictions; eat well-balanced meals. Increase your fluid intake with an infection. Drink at least 10 to 12 glasses of liquid a day.
Medications: Continue your prenatal vitamins. You may take acetaminophen one to two tablets every 4 to 6 hours for your fever and/or discomfort. The maximum daily dosage for regular strength acetaminophen (325 mg) is 10 tablets in 24 hours and extra strength (500 mg) is six tablets in 24 hours.
You Have Been Prescribed the Following Antibiotic: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
Take all of your antibiotics, even if you feel better, unless you have an adverse reaction to them. Then call the office.
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Temperature that rises significantly or reaches 100.4°F.
B.Foul-smelling drainage from the incision or episiotomy/vaginal laceration site.
C.Increased pain or tenderness.
D.Separation of wound or incision.
E.An amount of vaginal bleeding that increases significantly or is heavier than a period.
F.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
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