What should a postpartum nurse assess regarding perineal pad changes?

Assessing the amount of blood loss through perineal pad changes is crucial in the postpartum period, as it provides essential information about the client's recovery and potential complications. A moderate amount of bleeding can be common after childbirth, but excessive bleeding may indicate issues such as uterine atony, retained placental fragments, or lacerations. By monitoring pad saturation—such as how quickly a pad becomes soaked—the nurse can evaluate the client’s condition and determine whether intervention is needed. This assessment is vital for early identification of excessive blood loss, often referred to as postpartum hemorrhage.

While other factors like comfort level and emotional state are important for holistic care, they do not provide direct insights into the physical health of the client related to bleeding. Similarly, while color can give some indication of the age of the blood—such as bright red indicating fresh bleeding—it's the quantity that is most critical in monitoring for serious postpartum complications.