Early Mobilization to Facilitate Lochia Discharge in Postpartum Mothers with the Nursing Problem of Infection Risk

Abstract

Introduction: The postpartum period is a recovery phase following childbirth during which mothers remain vulnerable to complications, including infection. Inadequate lochia discharge may increase the risk of postpartum infection. One non-pharmacological nursing intervention that can support uterine involution and facilitate lochia discharge is early mobilization. This study aimed to describe the implementation of early mobilization to facilitate lochia discharge in postpartum mothers with the nursing problem of infection risk.

Method: This study employed a descriptive case study involving two mothers who had undergone normal delivery and experienced the nursing problem of infection risk. Early mobilization was implemented gradually up to six hours postpartum. Following the intervention, lochia discharge was observed using the COCA instrument.

Results: The implementation of early mobilization demonstrated that both respondents experienced smooth lochia discharge. The lochia was characterized as lochia rubra, with a fresh-red color, a normal fishy odor, and an amount sufficient to fill the sanitary pad. Differences in the amount of lochia discharge were influenced by factors such as age and activity; however, overall, early mobilization was effective in facilitating lochia discharge.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that the implementation of early mobilization was effective in facilitating lochia discharge in postpartum mothers with the nursing problem of infection risk.