Puerperal pyrexia is defined as a temperature of 38°C or more on how many occasions after the first 24 hours following delivery, within the first 10 days postpartum?
- A A single reading of 38°C at any time in the first 10 days
- B Three consecutive readings above 37.5°C on any 3 days
- C On any 2 of the first 10 days postpartum (excluding the first 24 hours), measured orally at least twice daily ✓
- D Temperature above 38.5°C on at least one occasion after 24 hours
Correct answer: C. On any 2 of the first 10 days postpartum (excluding the first 24 hours), measured orally at least twice daily
Explanation
The JMMFG (Joint Maternal Mortality and Fever Group) and classic textbook definition of puerperal pyrexia is a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or more on any 2 of the first 10 postpartum days, excluding the first 24 hours post-delivery (which may reflect physiological leucocytosis, breast engorgement or dehydration). This definition helps distinguish genuine infection from transient fever. Daily oral temperature measurement at least twice daily is required. A single isolated reading or a lower threshold does not meet the definition.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.