Question

A woman gave birth to a healthy infant boy 5 days ago. What type of lochia does the nurse expect to find when evaluating this client?

a) Lochia rubra
b) Lochia sangra
c) Lochia alba
d) Lochia serosa

Answer 1

The woman who gave birth 5 days ago is likely experiencing lochia serosa, which is a pinkish, thinner form of postpartum vaginal discharge that follows the initial lochia rubra phase.

Step-by-step explanation:

Five days postpartum, the nurse would expect to find that the woman is experiencing lochia serosa. This type of lochia is characterized by a pinkish discharge that is thinner than the initially experienced lochia rubra. Lochia rubra is the thick, dark red discharge that lasts for the first 2-3 days after giving birth. Following this phase, lochia serosa takes over and is present until about the tenth day postpartum. Lastly, lochia alba, which is a scant, creamy, or watery discharge, may continue for an additional 1-2 weeks. Therefore, the correct answer is d) Lochia serosa.