b. Organisms. Those organisms recognized as the common causative agents
are normally seen in the lower bowel and lower genital tract.
(1)
Anaerobic staphylococci.
(2)
Anaerobic streptococci.
(3)
Clostridium perfringens.
(4)
Neisseria gonorrhea.
c. Predisposing Factors.
(1) Prolonged rupture of uterine membranes provides increased opportunity
for infection to develop prior to delivery.
(2)
Retained placental fragments-provides additional medium for infectious
growth.
(3)
Postpartal hemorrhage-causes decreased resistance to pathogens.
(4)
(5) A prolonged and difficult labor, especially with the involvement of
instruments (forceps).
(6)
Intrauterine manipulations for fetal delivery or manual expulsion of
placenta.
d. Spread of Infectious Microorganisms. This may be the result of the spread
of infectious microorganisms in the hospital setting.
e. Means to Prevent the Spread of Puerperal Infection in Hospitals.
(1)
Restrict personnel with respiratory infections from working with patients.
(2)
Use caps, mask, gowns, and gloves when working in delivery rooms.
(3)
Use sterilized equipment within control dates.
(4)
Wash hands meticulously (staff).
(5)
Correct breaks in sterile techniques immediately.
(6) Instruct the patient on hand washing and cleansing her perineum from
front to back.
MD0922
6-18