Puerperal pyrexia is defined in obstetrics as a temperature of ≥38°C on which of the following specific criteria?

• A Any single reading ≥38°C on any day during the first 10 days postpartum
• B On any two of the first 10 days postpartum (excluding the first 24 hours) ✓
• C Temperature ≥38.5°C sustained for more than 4 hours
• D Temperature ≥38°C within the first 48 hours only, as later fever is defined as secondary puerperal pyrexia

Explanation

Puerperal pyrexia is defined as a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher occurring on any two of the first 10 days postpartum, exclusive of the first 24 hours. The exclusion of the first 24 hours accounts for the normal physiological febrile response to labour and delivery. This definition allows identification of persistent pathological fever indicating infection such as endometritis, urinary tract infection, mastitis, or wound infection.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.