The colour of lochia rubra is

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Explanation

Lochia rubra is the initial stage of postpartum vaginal discharge, occurring immediately after childbirth.
Its distinct red color is due to a high concentration of blood, erythrocytes, shredded decidua, and fetal membrane debris.
This stage typically lasts for the first 1 to 4 days postpartum before transitioning to the next phase.

Option A: A brown or pale brownish color is characteristic of lochia serosa, not lochia rubra.
Option C: A yellowish color is a hallmark of lochia serosa or the transition to lochia alba.
Option D: A pale white or yellowish-white color defines lochia alba, the final stage of postpartum discharge.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Characteristics and stages of postpartum lochia as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Assessing the color, amount, and odor of lochia is a critical nursing responsibility to monitor for postpartum complications like hemorrhage and infection.
Educating the new mother on the normal progression of lochia helps her identify and report abnormalities promptly.
A foul odor can indicate a puerperal infection, while an excessive amount or the reappearance of bright red bleeding after it has subsided may signal postpartum hemorrhage or subinvolution of the uterus.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'lochia rubra'.
Recall the three stages of postpartum vaginal discharge (lochia).
Associate each stage with its characteristic color: rubra (red), serosa (pinkish/brownish), and alba (whitish/yellowish).
Based on this knowledge, select the option that correctly matches the color of lochia rubra.
Eliminate the other options by linking their colors to the incorrect stages of lochia (serosa and alba).

Concept Tested & Keywords

QeJaTW1jHdsXmFKE62VrMZ

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 45-63

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 1-5

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.