A nurse is visiting a postpartum woman who delivered a healthy newborn 5 days ago. Which of the following would the nurse expect to find?

Choice A rationale The expected uterine discharge 5 days postpartum is lochia serosa, which is typically thin, watery, and a pinkish-brown color. This stage follows lochia rubra (deep red, 1-3 days postpartum) and consists of old blood, serum, tissue debris, and leukocytes. It usually lasts from about day 4 to day 10 postpartum, representing a normal progression of the uterine healing process (involution). Choice B rationale A deep red, mucus-like discharge (lochia rubra) is characteristic of the first 3 to 4 days postpartum, consisting mainly of blood, decidual and trophoblastic debris. By day 5, the discharge should have transitioned to lochia serosa as the bleeding significantly lessens and the wound-healing process progresses within the uterine cavity. Choice C rationale Creamy white or yellowish discharge (lochia alba) is the final stage of lochia, consisting primarily of leukocytes, decidual cells, epithelial cells, fat, and mucus. This stage typically begins around day 10 to 14 postpartum and can last for several weeks, indicating that the uterine lining has healed and involution is nearly complete. Choice D rationale Bright red discharge (lochia rubra) or a sudden return to bright red bleeding after the lochia has progressed (secondary hemorrhage) is abnormal 5 days postpartum. It suggests active bleeding at the placental site or cervical/vaginal lacerations. If heavy, it warrants immediate assessment for possible retained placental fragments or uterine atony.