Question

The nurse is caring for four 1-day postpartum clients. Which client would require further nursing action?

1.The client with mild afterpains
2.The client with a pulse rate of 60 beats/minute
3.The client with colostrum discharge from both breasts
4.The client with lochia that is red and has a foul-smelling odor

Answer 1

The client with lochia that is red and has a foul-smelling odor requires further nursing action as this could indicate an infection. Lochia is the postpartum vaginal discharge that changes from red to pinkish to white, but a foul odor and unusual color can indicate an infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client who would require further nursing action is the one with lochia that is red and has a foul-smelling odor. This could be a sign of infection and needs to be addressed immediately. Lochia is the postpartum vaginal discharge that typically changes from red to pinkish to white over the course of a few weeks. However, a foul odor and unusual color can indicate an infection, such as endometritis or wound infection.