This post is sponsored by AdventHealth.
When a newborn arrives, special attention is given to the baby to make sure they are nursing or bottle feeding on a regular schedule, have enough wet diapers, bringing the baby to pediatrician appointments, etc. These weeks can be very busy and overwhelming, especially for the postpartum mom. She also needs special support making sure she’s rested, well fed, and on alert for any medical complications that may arise.
That’s why AdventHealth recently launched the Post-Birth Alert Bracelet Initiative at its two birth centers in Kansas City – Shawnee Mission and South Overland Park. The Post Birth Alert Program gives an orange bracelet to all newly postpartum women to wear on their wrist. This bracelet is designed to raise awareness among healthcare providers and the community, signaling that the individual has recently given birth so that appropriate, timely, and compassionate care can be provided.
We chatted with Lauren Galli, Director of Labor and Delivery at AdventHealth to learn more about the Orange Bracelet Program.
Why was the program introduced?
Lauren mentioned that “AdventHealth wanted to introduce this program to our community to have early identification of maternal complications, reduce health inequities by using an objective visible risk indicator, and eliminate preventable death in the maternal population.”
What do you want postpartum mothers to know about this new program?
Before leaving the hospital, the mother will receive an easy to read handout on signs and symptoms they should be aware of. The Post-Birth Alert should also be a reminder to women to feel empowered to advocate for their health by reporting any concerns or symptoms to their healthcare provider and seek treatment when something does not feel right.
How long should a postpartum mom wear the bracelet?
Lauren said “AdventHealth recommends that the mother continue wearing the band until their 6 week follow up appointment. At that time the mother and her provider can discuss and determine the appropriate plan moving forward.”
How is AdventHealth’s staff using this as a tool to help postpartum mothers?
All AdventHealth Emergency Departments have been educated on the importance of assessing for the bracelet on any woman entering the facility. The Post-Birth Alert will standardize communication across the care team and improve clinical decision making. The goal is to make sure the woman receives appropriate and timely care for their concerns or complications.
AdventHealth also hosted a citywide collaboration, bringing together OB, ER, and emergency response teams to learn about the Post-Birth Alert Initiative and explore implementation within their own facilities.
What should postpartum mothers be aware of in the weeks after delivery?
Postpartum bodies are going through a lot of changes in a very short amount of time. Some important signs to address immediately are chest pain, shortness of breath, seizures, and thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else. Notify your healthcare provider if you are experiencing heavy bleeding, incision that is not healing, red or swollen extremity, temperature of 100.4 or greater, or headache that does not resolve after medication. Women should give themselves permission to rest and recover and follow providers instructions. Women know their body best. If there are any concerns they should seek medical attention.
What could support persons do to help a postpartum mother?
The support person plays a vital role during the postpartum period. Effective support includes both practical assistance—such as helping the mother rest and recover—and meaningful emotional support. This involves offering reassurance, listening without judgment, and validating the mother’s experiences. In addition, the support person should remain attentive to signs of emotional distress and encourage early intervention if concerns arise.
