What is the priority instruction for a client caring for her episiotomy after discharge?

The priority instruction for a client caring for her episiotomy after discharge is to perform perineal care after toileting until healing occurs. This guidance is crucial because the perineal area is at risk for infection and other complications following an episiotomy. Proper perineal care includes cleansing the area gently and thoroughly after each use of the toilet to remove any stool or urine that could irritate the incision, thereby promoting healing and reducing the likelihood of infection.

Maintaining hygiene in the perineal area is essential, especially in the postpartum period when the body is healing from childbirth. This practice helps to keep the area clean and dry, promoting better healing of the episiotomy wound. It is also important for the client to be vigilant about signs of infection, which can arise in the absence of proper care.

While other options, such as applying a topical analgesic or using a sitz bath, are beneficial for managing discomfort and aiding healing, they do not take precedence over the need for consistent and proper perineal care. Lifting heavy objects is also important to avoid strain, but it is not as immediate a concern as ensuring that the perineal area is being properly cared for during the healing process.