How should lochia flow be reported when there is a 5-inch stain on the perineal pad?

How should lochia flow be reported when there is a 5-inch stain on the perineal pad?

• A. Scant
• B. Light
• C. Heavy
• D. Moderate

Answer: (D)

The amount of lochia is described by how much of the pad is stained. A five-inch stain shows more than a light or scant amount but is not fully saturating the pad or indicating a heavy flow. That level fits as moderate lochia flow, reflecting a noticeable amount of vaginal discharge and blood that is less than what would saturate the pad quickly. Keep monitoring the trend—if bleeding worsens (pad becomes saturated quickly, requires more than one pad per hour, or large clots appear) or if there’s foul odor, report promptly.

The amount of lochia is described by how much of the pad is stained. A five-inch stain shows more than a light or scant amount but is not fully saturating the pad or indicating a heavy flow. That level fits as moderate lochia flow, reflecting a noticeable amount of vaginal discharge and blood that is less than what would saturate the pad quickly. Keep monitoring the trend—if bleeding worsens (pad becomes saturated quickly, requires more than one pad per hour, or large clots appear) or if there’s foul odor, report promptly.