A client's temperature may be elevated to 100.4° F (38° C) during the first 24 hours after delivery because of dehydration resulting from the exertion and stress of labor. Mastitis usually develops after breastfeeding is established and the milk supply is present. Puerperal infection usually begins with a fever of 100.4° F (38 °C) or higher on 2 successive days, excluding the first 24 hours after delivery. Urinary tract infection usually becomes evident later in the postpartum period.
