Nurse Key

Sexual activity and contraception after birth Follow the practitioner’s instructions on sexual activity and contraception. Most couples can resume sexual activity 3 to 4 weeks after birth.

Protecting neonates from the sun Neonates are more susceptible to the harmful effects of the sun because the amount of melanin (pigment) in their skin is low at birth. Teach…

Preterm neonate To help the parents of a preterm neonate cope with this difficult situation, follow these guidelines. Orient the parents to the neonatal intensive care unit environment and introduce…

Preterm labor Here are some guidelines for teaching a patient about preterm labor. Reassure her that drug effects on her neonate should be minimal. Tell her to notify the practitioner…

Premature rupture of membranes Here are some guidelines to follow when teaching a patient about premature rupture of membranes (PROM).

Pregnancy discomforts This table lists common discomforts associated with pregnancy and suggestions for the patient on how to prevent and manage them. Discomfort Patient teaching Urinary frequency Void as necessary….

Postpartum maternal self-care When teaching your patient about postpartum self-care, be sure to include these topic areas and instructions. Personal hygiene Change perineal pads frequently, removing them from the front…

Phenylketonuria Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism characterized by the inability of the body to metabolize the essential amino acid phenylalanine. Teach parents how to limit phenylalanine intake…

Phenylalanine in foods The neonate’s diet should meet his nutritional needs for optimum growth while maintaining a phenylalanine level of 2 to 8 mg/dl. Phenylalanine levels greater than 10 to…