Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(Sean Pound) #1

CHAPTER 14 Women’s Health^507



  • Check incision site.

  • Assess abdomen for bowel sounds, distention.

  • Check urinary output.

  • Administer pain medication.

  • Check vital signs, temperature.

  • Emotional reassurance.

  • Explain to the patient:

    • Use of pain medication.

    • Benefit of early ambulation.

    • Increased chance of future ectopic pregnancies.




Fibroids (Leiomyomas)


Leiomyomas are smooth muscle tumors of the uterus. Since they are hormone-
receptive, the tumors will change in size with the menses.


WHAT WENT WRONG?


It is unknown what causes the proliferation of these smooth muscle tumors.
Fibroids are more common in African-American women.


PROGNOSIS


Since the tumors are hormone-responsive, they will shrink with menopause.
However, in patients with large tumors, pain, and excessive bleeding, treatment is
necessary.


HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS



  • Bleeding, anemia

  • Pain, from a large tumor

  • Pressure


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