What is a key diagnostic criterion for endometritis post-delivery?

A key diagnostic criterion for postpartum endometritis is a fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher occurring within the first 36 hours following delivery. This timeframe is critical because endometritis typically develops shortly after childbirth, particularly following cesarean delivery or complicated vaginal deliveries. The elevation in temperature signals an inflammatory response, which is a hallmark of endometritis, often in conjunction with uterine tenderness and, in some cases, a foul-smelling lochia.

Having established that the fever must occur within the 36-hour window emphasizes the early onset of infection associated with post-delivery complications. Recognizing this criterion is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment of endometritis to prevent further complications. Other options suggest different temperatures or timeframes, thereby not aligning with the established definition of postpartum infection.