Which statement should be included in discharge instructions for a postpartum client regarding leg swelling?

• A. Take daily NSAIDs without prescription.
• B. Notify the provider immediately if a leg becomes swollen.
• C. Expect leg swelling to resolve within 24 hours without action.
• D. Apply heat to legs to promote circulation.

Answer: (B)

Leg swelling after delivery can signal a venous thromboembolism, because the postpartum period is a time of increased blood clotting. If swelling develops, especially in one leg and accompanied by warmth, redness, or calf tenderness, it requires prompt assessment to rule out a deep vein thrombosis and prevent a potential pulmonary embolism.

Therefore, the instruction to include is to notify the provider immediately if a leg becomes swollen. This ensures timely evaluation—often with a leg Doppler ultrasound—and appropriate treatment if a clot is present, which protects the mother from serious complications.

Why the other statements aren’t appropriate: taking NSAIDs without a prescription can pose safety risks and may mask symptoms or interact with breastfeeding or other conditions. Assuming swelling will resolve within 24 hours without any action ignores the possibility of a DVT. Applying heat to a swollen leg is not advised when clot risk is present, as heat can worsen inflammation and delay diagnosis.