QUESTION: "After teaching a woman who is in labor about the purpose of the episiotomy, which of the following purposes stated by the client would indicate to the nurse that the teaching was effective?"
CHOICES
( O ) a.) Shortens the second stage of labor.
( X ) b.) Enlarges the pelvic inlet.
( X ) c.) Prevents perineal edema.
( X ) d.) Ensures quick placental delivery.
RATIONALE: An episiotomy serves several purposes. It shortens the second stage of labor, substitutes a clean surgical incision for a tear, and decreases undue stretching of perineal muscles. An episiotomy helps prevent tearing of the rectum but it does not necessarily relieve pressure on the rectum. Tearing may still occur. An episiotomy has no effect on the pelvic outlet. An episiotomy does not prevent perineal edema. Rather it helps to reduce the risk of tearing of the perineal tissues. An episiotomy does not ensure quick delivery of the placenta. Delivery of the placenta should occur within 5 minutes regardless of whether an episiotomy has or has not been performed. NURSING PROCESS STEP: Evaluation CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Health promotion and maintenance CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: None
