The nurse assesses the initial lochia post-delivery which is known as:
A.
Rubra.
B.
Fontanalis.
C.
Serosa.
D.
Alba.
The correct answer is A. Rubra.
Explanation:
Lochia refers to the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. The stages of lochia are named based on the color and content of the discharge as the uterus heals:
- Lochia Rubra:
This is the initial stage of lochia, occurring in the first few days post-delivery. It is bright red due to the presence of a large amount of blood. It typically lasts for about 3 to 4 days. - Lochia Serosa:
This stage follows lochia rubra and occurs from about the 4th day to the 10th day postpartum. The discharge becomes lighter in color, turning pinkish or brownish, and contains less blood and more mucus. - Lochia Alba:
This is the final stage, occurring around the 10th day postpartum and lasting up to 6 weeks. The discharge becomes whitish or yellowish and contains mostly white blood cells and mucus. - Fontanalis:
This is not related to lochia. The term refers to the soft spots on a newborn’s skull where the bones have not yet fused.
Given that lochia rubra is the initial lochia post-delivery, the correct answer is A. Rubra.