Final answer:
A nurse can estimate postpartum blood loss by assessing pad saturation and color of the lochia. Lochia rubra transitioning to lochia serosa and then to lochia alba indicates normal blood loss reduction. If lochia remains bright red, it may suggest a hemorrhage, requiring further medical assessment.
Therefore, option is correct. (2)
Step-by-step explanation:
Evaluating Postpartum Blood Loss
Alongside assessing the degree of perineal pad saturation, another parameter a nurse can use to estimate blood loss in a postpartum client is the color of the lochia. Initially, the client will have thick, dark lochia rubra (red lochia), indicating the presence of fresh blood and a higher likelihood of continued bleeding. This occurs for 2-3 days postpartum and transitions to lochia serosa, a thinner, pinkish discharge lasting until about the tenth postpartum day. Normal progression to lochia alba, a scant, creamy, or watery discharge, indicates a reduction in blood content and typically continues for another 1-2 weeks. If the lochia remains bright red and heavy beyond the expected time frame, it may suggest postpartum hemorrhage, warranting further evaluation and intervention.
Other clinical signs such as the presence of clots or an unusual odor can indicate complications but are less quantifiable in estimating blood loss volume compared to pad saturation and lochia color. Consistent monitoring is critical, as retained placental fragments or inadequate uterine contractions may cause hemorrhage. Effective uterine contraction, as facilitated by breastfeeding, plays a key role in reducing blood loss and aid in the involution process.