Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

I. Septic abortion
Infection may occur following any abortion. It may be
associated with incomplete abortion but is more commonly
found after an induced abortion.
The infection may be limited to the decidual lining of the
uterus but virulent organisms may cause the infection to
spread and involve the myometrium, fallopian tubes and
pelvic organs.
Symptoms and signs
Complaining of feeling unwell
Headache and nausea accompanied by sweating and
shivering and shivering
On examination
It looks flushed, her skin will be hot to the touch and it may be
clammy.
Spiking pyrexia in excess of 38 0 C
Steadily rising pulse
After 12 th week of pregnancy abdominal examination will
identify tenderness of the uterus, which will be bulky and soft
in texture. The vaginal discharge will have an offensive odor
and may be pinkish in color,
Specific investigations will include vaginal and cervical swabs,
full blood culture and hematological investigations.
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