Which statement indicates to the nurse on a postpartum home visit that the patient understands the signs of late postpartum hemorrhage?

• A. Red after pink or white
• B. Pink discharge only
• C. White discharge only
• D. Yellow discharge

Answer: (A)

Understanding how lochia changes after birth is key. After delivery, the vaginal discharge (lochia) normally progresses from bright red (lochia rubra) to pink/brown (lochia serosa) and finally to white/yellow (lochia alba). A return to bright red bleeding after it has become pink or white suggests renewed uterine bleeding, which is a sign to watch for in late postpartum hemorrhage.

So the statement that shows understanding is noticing that red bleeding occurs after a period of pink or white discharge. The other patterns—pink only, white only, or yellow discharge—fit the expected progression or could indicate other issues, but they don’t indicate renewed hemorrhage. If heavy red bleeding resumes, especially soaking through a pad quickly or with clots, contact a clinician promptly.