Surgical site infections are one of the most common complications following cesarean section deliveries, and that risk only increases after a natural disaster when clean water, electricity, hygiene products and other necessities are limited. Here’s are some important things to remember about C-section infection and prevention:
Infection Prevention
- Adhere to any prescribed courses of medication.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes.
- Wash your hands after you use the bathroom. If soap and clean water are not available, clean your hands with hand sanitizer and wash your hands as soon as possible.
- Avoid contact with flood water.
- Change clothes and underwear daily.
- Avoid placing anything in the vagina, like using tampons or having sex, for several weeks.
Wound Site Care
- Keep the area dry and clean.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before and after you touch your incision, if possible. If soap and clean water are not available, clean your hands with hand sanitizer and wash your hands as soon as possible.
- Avoid touching the wound with your fingers while treating it. If possible use disposable gloves.
- Gently clean around the wound with soap and clean water. Pat dry after cleaning.
- Avoid baths or submerging in water.
- Do not disturb the wound.
Know the Signs of Infection
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Redness at the incision site.
- Swelling at the incision site.
- Pus discharge from the incision site.
- Pain at the incision site that doesn’t go away or gets worse.
- Fever higher than 100.4ºF.
If you experience any signs of infection, call your doctor or seek medical attention immediately. For more tips or questions on pregnancy and postpartum concerns text our Pregnancy Nurse Navigator at 225-314-8485.