Curriculum of Obstetrics
TOPIC 48
PUERPERAL SEPSIS AND PUERPERAL PYREXIA
RATIONALE
Puerperal sepsis is the most common serious complication of the puerperium and, along with pre-eclampsia and obstetrical hemorrhage, formed the lethal triad of causes of maternal death for many decades. Proper obstetric management and sterilization can prevent most cases of puerperal sepsis. Graduates should know how to diagnose and manage puerperal sepsis in order to achieve a reduction in maternal mortality and morbidity.
GOALS
l Understand the definition of puerperal pyrexia
l Recognize the causes, pathology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and management of puerperal sepsis
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this course, the student will be able to:
l List the causes of puerperal pyrexia
l Describe the pathology of puerperal sepsis
l List the risk factors and the prophylaxis of puerperal sepsis
l State the symptoms and signs of puerperal sepsis
l Plan a protocol for management of puerperal sepsis
l Diagnose the pathological type and complications in pathology jars
l Take appropriate history for risk factors
CONTENT
l Definition of puerperal pyrexia
l Causes of puerperal pyrexia
l Definition and causes of puerperal sepsis
l Pathology of puerperal sepsis
l The risk factors and the prophylaxis of puerperal sepsis
l Symptoms and signs of puerperal sepsis
l Protocol for management of puerperal sepsis
