Which of the following is the first step in the management of post-partum hemorrhage?

The first step in the management of postpartum hemorrhage is to identify the underlying cause. In many cases, one common cause of postpartum hemorrhage is retained placental fragments, which can prevent the uterus from contracting effectively and lead to continued bleeding. Therefore, performing a pelvic examination to assess for retained placental tissue is a crucial initial step.

The assessment for retained placental fragments helps to determine not just the source of the bleeding, but also the appropriate subsequent intervention. Once this evaluation is performed, the necessary treatment can be applied based on findings, such as administering uterotonics to improve uterine tone, performing a manual removal of retained tissue, or considering其他 surgical interventions if required.

While uterotonic drugs, bimanual uterine massage, and surgical interventions play significant roles in the management of postpartum hemorrhage, they typically follow the initial assessment for the cause of bleeding. Understanding the need to first evaluate the situation is essential for guiding further management effectively.