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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