Which postpartum considerations are particularly important for a mother who had a cesarean delivery?

• A. Wound care is not needed.
• B. Wound care, infection risk, pain management, incentive spirometry, early ambulation, and extended recovery period
• C. No special considerations beyond standard postpartum care.
• D. Avoid ambulation for 48 hours.

Answer: (B)

A cesarean delivery introduces surgical recovery needs that shape postpartum care. The abdominal incision requires diligent wound care and monitoring for signs of infection or dehiscence, with appropriate dressing changes and incision assessment as part of routine recovery. Infection risk is higher after surgery, so preventive measures, maintaining asepsis, and watching for fever or redness around the incision are important. Pain management is essential because adequate analgesia enables the mother to breathe deeply, mobilize, and care for the newborn without overexertion. Incentive spirometry is used to promote lung expansion after anesthesia and reduce the risk of atelectasis or pneumonia. Early ambulation helps prevent venous thromboembolism, improves gastrointestinal motility, and accelerates overall recovery, so staying immobile for 48 hours is not advisable. An extended recovery period recognizes that healing from a cesarean incision takes time and may require a slower pace of activity and more rest. Together, these components reflect the key postpartum considerations after a cesarean delivery.