Further Outpatient Care
If the patient is discharged from the ED, arrange definite follow-up care in 1-2 days with the patient's primary gynecologist.
Further Inpatient Care
Inpatient treatment of patients with abortion complications includes repeat D&C, laparoscopy, and laparotomy (for treatment of complicated perforation, bowel and bladder injuries, refractory bleeding).
Further inpatient care for patients with septic abortion include the following:
-
Perform a prompt evacuation of retained products of conception from the uterus.
-
Administer aggressive antibiotic therapy.
-
Monitor the patient's temperature, vaginal discharge, and bleeding.
Deterrence/Prevention
Educate patients about contraceptive measures to deter them from using abortion as a means of birth control.
Deterrence and prevention of septic abortion include the following:
-
Contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancies
-
Safe and legal abortions
-
Easy access to prenatal care
-
Prompt diagnosis of septic abortion
-
Timely treatment with intravenous antibiotics
-
Prompt evacuation of retained tissue from the uterus