The nurse assesses a postpartum woman’s perineum and notices that her lochial discharge is moderate in amount and red. The nurse would record this as what type of lochia?
A.
Lochia alba
B.
Lochia normal
C.
Lochia serosa
D.
Lochia rubra
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Lochia rubra.
Explanation:
Lochia is the term used to describe the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth as the body sheds the uterine lining and other materials. It typically progresses through three stages: lochia rubra, lochia serosa, and lochia alba.
- Lochia Rubra: This is the initial type of discharge that occurs in the first few days postpartum, typically lasting from birth to about day 3-4. It is characterized by its bright red color and moderate to heavy flow, containing blood, decidual tissue, and mucus. The presence of bright red blood indicates that the discharge is fresh, which is expected immediately after delivery. In this case, the moderate amount and red color noted by the nurse suggest that the woman is within the expected timeframe for lochia rubra.
- Lochia Serosa: Following lochia rubra, the discharge transitions to lochia serosa, which occurs around days 4 to 10 postpartum. This type of lochia is pink or brown in color, indicating that the bleeding is slowing and is composed more of serum and leukocytes rather than fresh blood.
- Lochia Alba: After lochia serosa, typically from around day 10 until about six weeks postpartum, lochia alba occurs. This discharge is white or yellowish and primarily consists of leukocytes, epithelial cells, and mucus, signifying the end of the postpartum bleeding.
In summary, lochia rubra is the expected finding in the early postpartum period and is an essential aspect of monitoring a woman’s recovery after childbirth. Any deviations from this expected pattern, such as a sudden increase in flow, changes in color, or a foul odor, could indicate complications like retained placental fragments or infection, necessitating further assessment and intervention. Thus, the assessment of lochia is crucial in postpartum care to ensure the health and recovery of the new mother.