1. Two days after delivery, a postpartum client prepares for discharge. What should the

nurse teach her about lochia flow?

Incorrect: Lochia does change color but goes from lochia rubra (bright red) on days 1-3, to

lochia serosa (pinkish brown) on days 4-9, to lochia alba (creamy white) days 10-21.

Incorrect: Numerous clots are abnormal and should be reported to the physician.

Incorrect: Saturation of the perineal pad is considered abnormal and may indicate

postpartum hemorrhage.

Correct: Lochia normally lasts for about 21 days, and

changes from a bright red, to pinkish brown, to creamy

white.

The color of the lochia changes from a bright red to white after four

days Numerous large clots are normal for the next three to four days

Saturation of the perineal pad with blood is expected when getting up from the

bed Lochia should last for about 3 weeks, changing color every few days