Willow is a 32-year-old primigravida female admitted to a postpartum unit. She had a spontaneous vaginal delivery 26 hours ago at 37+1 weeks. The baby (Carter) is small for gestational age with a birth weight of 2560 grams (5 pounds, 6 ounces), despite a pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes. Carter’s APGAR scores were 8 and 9. The birth progressed well, although Willow has a 2nd-degree tear. Her medical history includes a diagnosis of Schizoaffective Disorder and an 8-year history of psychosis and mood instability. She has a case manager through a community mental health team and received prenatal care from a family physician. She works part-time. She has no partner and currently lives with her mom. Willow has a good relationship with her mom, but her mom works out of town for extended periods of time. Willow’s medications include Risperidone 5mg po BID and she has stayed on this throughout pregnancy in consultation with her mental health team. She smokes ½ a pack of cigarettes/day and uses cannabis occasionally. At a previous prenatal visit, the family physician discussed the potential for Willow’s baby to experience withdrawal symptoms from her use of prescribed (risperidone) and non-prescribed (cannabis, nicotine) substances.
Game synopsis:
This virtual simulation involves a postpartum mother and her newborn, highlighting key aspects of maternal and neonatal care. Learners will assess postpartum physical and psychosocial factors to identify care needs, recognize abnormal findings requiring follow-up, and initiate appropriate nursing interventions. The scenario emphasizes a trauma- and violence-informed approach to care, promoting compassionate, nonjudgmental support for individuals with mental health concerns and substance use. Through this case, learners will develop clinical judgment and advocacy skills to ensure the well-being and safety of both mother and baby in the postpartum period.
Suggested target audience:
Nursing students in maternal-child or mental health practicum.
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