Ruth C., 19

Cherotich is a Form Four student from a humble background. Her parents earn about KSh 2,500 monthly, and the family lives in a two-room mud-walled house. They rely on a stream 20 minutes away for domestic and drinking water. Despite these challenges, Cherotich is a cheerful and ambitious young girl who dreams of becoming a medical professional one day. Ruth was pregnant, and for the past week, prior to coming to the hospital, she had been experiencing severe headaches associated with dizziness, backache, generalized body weakness, lower abdominal pain, and increased urinary frequency. Over the last four days, she developed per vaginal (PV) bleeding and, in the past two days, reduced fetal movement. On examination, she appeared weak and pale, with swelling in her lower limbs. She was 3cm dilated, and meconium grade II was noted. Per vaginal bleeding in pregnancy is referred to as antepartum haemorrhage (APH), which is dangerous because it can lead to severe maternal blood loss, anaemia, shock, and even maternal or fetal death if not managed promptly. Meconium grade II in the amniotic fluid indicates fetal distress or fatigue, suggesting the baby is not getting enough oxygen. Because of these risks, a caesarean section is the safest intervention to save both the mother and the baby.

Ruth arrived at the hospital having complains of severe headaches, backache, abdominal pain associated with dizziness on examination was found that the mother was general weak and pale looking, lower limb swelling and 3cm dilated, reduced fetal movement and heart rate and meconium grade 2, which is a danger sign to the pregnant mothers that requires emergency intervention, caesarean section was contacted successful which was the only way of saving lives of mother and the baby, during the discharge time both the mother and the baby were stable and in good condition. Ruth came back to the hospital 7 days after discharge for follow up, and it was confirmed that she and her baby were doing well.

With timely medical intervention, including blood transfusion and an emergency caesarean section, Cherotich and her baby have a good chance of recovery and survival. Post-operative care after abdominal and uterine surgery is crucial for proper healing, preventing infections, and avoiding complications such as bleeding, wound dehiscence, or organ damage. It ensures the surgical site remains clean, promotes early detection of problems like infections or clots, supports pain management, and helps the patient regain strength and mobility for a full recovery.