Date of Paper/Work
5-2022
Type of Paper/Work
Doctor of Nursing Practice Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Katrice Ziefle
Department/School
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Abstract
A practice discrepancy exists regarding the quality of care provided for non-obstetrical abdominal surgery versus cesarean section. The lack of consistent care practices for similar surgeries has led to inequities in access for obstetrical patients. The advantaged population receives additional education, demonstration, and support through best practices in postoperative care techniques. Incorporating physical therapy techniques into the postoperative plan of care reduces the formation of intrabdominal adhesions, lessens pain, and minimizes postoperative dysfunction (Wong et al., 2015). A quality improvement project was implemented to improve nursing knowledge on post-surgical movement, scar mobilization, skin desensitization, and abdominal binders for patients experiencing cesarean section. Obstetrical nurses participated in a 30-minute educational session that included completing a survey before and after the intervention. The educational sessions effectively increased nurses' knowledge and perceptions of best practices in postoperative care for patients experiencing cesarean section. Consequently, nursing units providing postoperative postpartum care are urged to collaborate with physical therapy to enhance recovery and reduce complications by implementing best practices in abdominal surgery recovery to the obstetrical, surgical population.
Recommended Citation
DeRung, Beth K.. (2022). INCORPORATING STANDARDIZED PHYSICAL THERAPY TECHNIQUES INTO THE POST-CESAREAN NURSING PLAN OF CARE THROUGH NURSING EDUCATION. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/dnp_projects/156