The postpartum period is a time of many changes. The nurse assesses for normal and abnormal changes during the postpartum period.

During the immediate postpartum period, the nurse performs routine postpartum assessments using the BUBBLEHE acronym. Postpartum healing and transitioning to being the primary caregiver of a newborn are influenced by resolution of physiologic changes, support systems, and culture and traditions.

postpartum depression — mood disorder whose symptoms are feelings of extreme stress, detachment from the newborn, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed that last longer than 2 weeks and are more…. primary caregiver of a newborn — influenced by resolution of physiologic changes, support systems, and culture and traditions. lochia alba — final postpartum discharge that is yellow-white and consists of white blood cells, epithelial cells, and mucus; occurs from approximately day 10 to 28. postpartum blues — (also: baby blues ) low moods that are common during the first 2 weeks of the postpartum period that resolve by themselves without treatment or medication.