Discharge and Discharge Criteria

Mothers are usually discharged after 24-48 hours post delivery if there are no problems. Postnatal care provided in the postnatal ward should include advice and teaching on what the mother and her family should do when she gets home in order to maintain an optimum level of health.

Discharge criteria:

• No fever
• No offensive or heavy lochia
• No headache
• No hyper/hypotension
• Physical and psychological well-being

Postpartum Care 1 Week and 6 Weeks After Delivery

Week 1

1. Check for anaemia 2. Blood pressure 3. Temperature 4. Respiration 5. Uterine involution 6. Lochia 7. Perineal tears 8. Breast condition and lactation 9. Reinforce advice given on discharge 10 Advise to return at 6 weeks postnatal

Week 6

1. Check for anaemia 2. Blood pressure 3. Temperature 4. Respiration 5. Uterine involution 6. Lochia 7. Perineal tears 8. Breast condition and lactation 9. Reinforce advice given on discharge 10 Counsel on family planning and provide the method of contraceptive choice.