Final answer:
To manage moderate post-delivery vaginal bleeding, the obstetrician should inspect the afterbirth for completeness, promote uterine contractions via massage or medication, and monitor the mother's condition closely. If bleeding persists or retained placental tissue is evident, further medical or surgical interventions may be necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
Postpartum hemorrhage is a serious concern following the delivery of a newborn and requires immediate medical attention. Since the mother's vital signs are stable, it indicates she is not yet in critical condition. However, moderate vaginal bleeding post-delivery is an indication that all parts of the placenta may not have been expelled and could lead to more severe blood loss.
One essential step would be for the obstetrician to examine the afterbirth to ensure its completeness. Any retained fragments could be a source of bleeding. The period immediately after delivery is called the postpartum period, during which the uterus contracts to help return to its pre-pregnancy size and to reduce bleeding from the placental site. The contractions also facilitate the expulsion of lochia, which is a mixture of uterine lining cells, blood, and other debris.
Medical interventions might include uterine massage to promote contractions, administration of uterotonic drugs to stimulate the uterus to contract, and manual exploration or removal of any retained placental fragments. If bleeding cannot be controlled or if retained placental tissue is suspected, further medical or surgical intervention may be required. Monitoring vital signs and maintaining IV access for potential fluid or blood product administration are also part of the appropriate management for this condition.
In summary, immediate examination of the afterbirth, medical interventions to promote uterine contractions, and close monitoring of the mother's condition are crucial to manage moderate vaginal bleeding in the postpartum period.