Midwifery and Obstetrical Nursing – Practical

11

Vaginal Examination and Assessment of Pelvic Adequacy

It is the examination of external and internal vagina to detect normal birth process.

OBJECTIVES

1. Detect external vaginal abnormality.
2. Determine size to permit vaginal birth.
3. Decide cervical dilatation and effacement.
4. Detect second stage of labour.

PREPARATION OF ARTICLES

A sterile tray containing

• Sterile cotton balls - for cleaning the vagina and perineal area
• Artery clamp - 1
• Bowl with antiseptic lotion (Savlon 1:20)
• Vaginal Sims speculum - 1
• Sterile lubricant cream in a small bowl (Savlon cream)
• Sterile gloves

Unsterile tray containing

• Kidney tray
• Draping sheet

PREPARATION OF WOMAN

1. Bladder should be empty before examination.
2. Do not withdraw fingers from vagina ...