Postoperative nursing care plan for uterine fibroids

Postoperative Nursing Care Plan for Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors of the uterus and occur in 70% of women in the age group of 30-50. Though, sometimes these fibroids can cause symptoms that require treatment such as pelvic pain, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding and frequent urination.

Assessment

Physical Examination: A Physical examination is done to check the size of the uterus within 24-48 hours postoperatively before the patient is discharged from the hospital. The size of the uterus should be smaller than it was originally. It is also used to determine if there are any signs of infection and to look for abnormal findings in other organs.

Blood tests: To track the levels of electrolytes and to monitor postoperative hemostasis during the recovery period.

Nursing Diagnosis

Risk for Ineffective Tissue Perfusion: This diagnosis is appropriate for a postoperative uterine fibroid patient who has diminished blood supply and oxygenation to vital organs due to surgical trauma.

Pain: This diagnosis is appropriate due to the postoperative discomfort associated with a laparotomy.

Outcomes

The patient will demonstrate the ability to tolerate activity within 48 hours postoperatively.

The patient will report an acceptable level of comfort.

Interventions

Activity: Encourage the patient to take part in light activities unless instructed by the physician to ensure effective tissue perfusion.

Analgesics: Administer prescribed analgesics for pain relief.

Rationales

Activity: Activity promotes early healing, increase muscle strength and produce more efficient movement of the abdominal wall to improve circulation.

Pain medications: Pain relief increases patient comfort, hastens mobilization and contributes to better arterial/venous perfusion.

Evaluation

By the end of the postoperative care period, the patient was able to tolerate activity and report an acceptable level of comfort.

Conclusion

Postoperative nursing care plan for uterine fibroids is tailored to the individual patient and designed to maintain fluid balance, monitor vital signs and promote mobilization. Adequate pain management and early activity are essential for recovery and for ensuring proper functioning of the patient’s organs.

FAQs

• What is a postoperative nursing care plan?
  A postoperative nursing care plan is an individualized plan of care created for a patient who has undergone a surgery or other medical procedure.
• Who creates the nursing care plan for a patient undergoing uterine fibroid surgery?
  The nursing care plan is typically developed by the registered nurse in conjunction with the physician or surgeon who performed the surgery.
• How often should the patient's vital signs be monitored during the postoperative period?
  Vital signs should be monitored every 4-6 hours during the immediate post-operative period or as per doctor's order.
• What is the importance of mobility after the surgery?
  Mobility is important for both circulatory and pulmonary function. Early mobility promotes faster recovery and helps maintain the patient's sense of independence.
• When is the patient safe to be discharged from the hospital?
  The patient's condition should be asymptomatic and physically stable before he/she is safe for discharge. Additionally, laboratory values should be within normal limits.