MEDizzy - While assessing the fundus of a multiparous client 36 hours

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Postpartal Care

While assessing the fundus of a multiparous client 36 hours after delivery of a term neonate, the nurse notes a separation of the abdominal muscles. The nurse should tell the client:

ExplanationThe client is experiencing diastasis recti, a separation of the longitudinal muscles (recti) of the abdomen that is usually palpable on the third postpartum day. An exercise involving raising the head and shoulders about 8 inches with the client lying on her back with knees bent and hands crossed over the abdomen is preferred. This exercise helps to pull the abdominal muscles together and the client gradually works up to performing this exercise 50 times per day. However, until the diastasis has closed, the client should avoid exercises that rotate the trunk, twist the hips, or bend the trunk to one side, because further separation may occur. The condition does not need a surgical repair, and limited activity and bed rest are not necessary. Correct posture and adequate diet assist the body to return to its prepregnancy state more quickly but do not resolve the separation of abdominal muscles.