What appropriate nursing action should be taken if a postpartum mother's temperature is noted to be 100.4° F (38° C)?

When a postpartum mother presents with a temperature of 100.4° F (38° C), encouraging oral fluids is a prudent nursing action because it addresses potential dehydration and supports overall recovery. In the postpartum period, mothers may experience elevated temperatures due to a variety of benign reasons, such as dehydration, exertion, or the body's normal response to labor and delivery.

By encouraging increased hydration, you help the mother maintain adequate fluid balance, which is particularly important when she may be losing fluids from sweating or breastfeeding. Hydration can also aid in the healing process and overall comfort level.

While assessing for fever is critical in identifying potential infections, a temperature of 100.4° F can sometimes be a normal finding in the first 24 hours postpartum. Therefore, directly administering antipyretics, notifying the healthcare provider, or delaying further assessment may not be warranted immediately. Instead, monitoring the situation while encouraging appropriate self-care measures, such as fluid intake, fosters a proactive approach to postpartum care.