If a licensed practical nurse (LPN) notes clots larger than 1 cm in the lochia, what is the appropriate nursing action?

When a licensed practical nurse (LPN) observes clots larger than 1 cm in the lochia, it is crucial to ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. Larger clots can indicate retained placental fragments or other issues that may lead to postpartum hemorrhage. Notifying the registered nurse (RN) is the appropriate action because the RN can conduct a more comprehensive assessment and determine the need for further interventions or medical evaluation.

This action falls under the chain of command and ensures that the patient's condition is being appropriately monitored and managed by a registered nurse who typically has the training to interpret these findings within the context of the patient's overall health and postpartum course. Effective communication and timely reporting are essential components of safe nursing practice, especially in situations that could escalate if not addressed quickly, such as excessive bleeding or signs of infection. While continued monitoring and documenting findings are important, those actions are not sufficient in this scenario, as the presence of larger clots may signal a need for immediate nursing intervention or a change in the patient's care plan.