In case of a postpartum hemorrhage, what is the nurse's role in first response?

In cases of postpartum hemorrhage, the nurse's first response is to massage the uterine fundus. This intervention is critical because it helps to stimulate uterine contractions, which is essential for controlling bleeding. After delivery, the uterus should contract to seal off the blood vessels that were supplying the placenta. If the uterus remains atonic (not contracted), it can lead to excessive bleeding.

Massaging the fundus promotes contraction and can help to expel clots that might be preventing the uterus from contracting effectively. This action is urgent and can significantly reduce the amount of blood loss, making it a priority in the management of postpartum hemorrhage. While notifying the physician and considering other interventions, such as administering blood products, those actions would typically occur after addressing the immediate physical response to stimulate uterine contraction. Documenting the event is also important but is not part of the immediate first response aimed at controlling hemorrhage.