A nurse is assisting in the care of a client on a postpartum unit. The client had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery 24 hours ago. Which of the following data collection findings should the nurse report to the primary RN immediately?

The postpartum period involves close monitoring for complications following delivery, even when the birth is uncomplicated. One of the most serious risks during this time is thromboembolic events due to hypercoagulability, venous stasis, and vascular injury associated with pregnancy and delivery. Early recognition of warning signs is critical to prevent life-threatening conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. Nurses must distinguish normal postpartum findings from abnormal findings requiring urgent intervention. Rationale: A. A calf that is edematous and tender is an abnormal finding and may indicate deep vein thrombosis. Postpartum clients are at increased risk of thrombus formation due to physiological hypercoagulability. Unilateral swelling, pain, and tenderness in the calf should be reported immediately to prevent progression to pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency. B. Nipple tenderness with breastfeeding is a common and expected finding in the early postpartum period. It is usually related to improper latch or initial nipple sensitivity as breastfeeding is established. This can be managed with education and support and does not require urgent reporting. C. Hemorrhoids in the rectal area are a frequent postpartum occurrence due to increased venous pressure during pregnancy and delivery. Although they may cause discomfort, they are not typically dangerous and can be managed with conservative measures such as stool softeners and topical treatments. D. Moderate lochia rubra 24 hours postpartum is an expected finding. Lochia rubra consists of red, bloody vaginal discharge that occurs in the early postpartum period as the uterus sheds its lining. As long as the amount is within expected limits and not excessive or foul-smelling, it is considered normal.