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Date: | Mon, 17 Nov 1997 15:29:23 -0500 |
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I have to say in my experience as an obstetric nurse for 17 years, the IV
fluids that we administer to moms is indeed significant because it causes
"third-spacing", or generalized edema. Our patients walk into the labor
suite already anticipating and requesting an epidural. The anesthesiologists
want 2 liters of IV fluid given quickly before they even start the epidural
to prevent hypotension. Then comes the hours of pitocin and IV fluids,
numerous epidural "top-offs" and more fluid boluses, etc, etc.
So, I see a mom who walked into the hospital with protuberant nipples, now
postpartum with much flatter nipples, impeding latch-on. This edema can take
up to 3 days to mobilize out. Just another example of high-tech obstetrics.
Stacey Richards RNC, IBCLC
NYC
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