Question

The postpartum nurse is providing instructions to a client after delivery of a healthy newborn. Which time frame should the nurse relay to the client regarding the return of bowel function?

A. 24 to 48 hours
B. 72 to 96 hours
C. 1 to 2 weeks
D. 2 to 4 weeks

Answer 1

The return of bowel function after delivery typically occurs within 24 to 48 hours. Uterine contractions and breastfeeding can facilitate the process.

Step-by-step explanation:

The time frame that a postpartum nurse should relay to a client regarding the return of bowel function after delivery of a healthy newborn is typically A. 24 to 48 hours. During the postpartum period, uterine contractions help return the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size in a process called involution, which also helps reposition the abdominal organs to their pre-pregnancy locations. Breastfeeding can facilitate involution and may influence the return of bowel function. Additionally, the body experiences lochia discharge post delivery which transitions through stages from lochia rubra to lochia serosa and finally to lochia alba over a few weeks.