A postpartum woman 4 hours after delivery has a temperature of 100.2 F. What is the most appropriate action?

• A. Retake the temperature in 15 minutes
• B. Document the findings
• C. Increase hydration by encouraging oral fluids
• D. Notify the physician

Answer: (C)

A mild fever shortly after delivery is most often due to dehydration from labor. At four hours postpartum, a temperature of 100.2 F suggests hypovolemia rather than a clear infection. The best first step is to increase oral fluids to replenish volume, improve perfusion, and help bring the temperature down. After encouraging fluids, reassess the temperature and continue to monitor for any signs of infection, such as uterine tenderness, foul lochia, or rapid heart rate. Documenting the finding is appropriate, but it doesn’t address the likely cause, and escalating care isn’t necessary unless the fever persists or other concerning symptoms develop.