I’m working on a health & medical writing question and need the explanation and answer to help me learn.
A nurse is caring for a female patient who was admitted with pelvic pain. A physician informs the nurse that he will perform a pelvic examination on the patient and the nurse should prepare the patient for the examination. How should the nurse position the patient?
How to solve
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Nursing Assignment Help
Introduction: As a medical professor responsible for designing college assignments and conducting lectures for medical college students, I have extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of medicine. In this particular case, I will provide guidance on how a nurse should position a female patient for a pelvic examination.
Answer:
When preparing a female patient for a pelvic examination, the nurse should follow specific guidelines to ensure the patient is comfortable and the examination is conducted successfully. Here are the steps the nurse should take when positioning the patient:
1. Explain the Procedure: Before beginning the examination, it is crucial for the nurse to communicate with the patient and explain the procedure in a clear and concise manner. This will help alleviate any anxiety or apprehension the patient may feel.
2. Provide Privacy and Dignity: It is essential to ensure the patient’s privacy and maintain their dignity throughout the examination process. The nurse should offer a private area for the patient to change into a gown or other suitable attire.
3. Help the Patient Assume the Lithotomy Position: The most common position for a pelvic examination is the lithotomy position. The nurse should assist the patient in assuming this position by following these steps:
a. Instruct the patient to lie on their back on the examination table, with their buttocks positioned at the edge.
b. The patient’s legs should be flexed at the knees and hips. The nurse should help the patient place their feet in adjustable stirrups, which are attached to the examination table.
c. The patient’s knees should be bent and opened apart, allowing for proper visualization and access to the pelvic area.
d. Maintain Patient Comfort: Throughout the examination, the nurse should continuously assess the patient’s comfort level and make necessary adjustments, such as offering additional support for the patient’s legs or providing pillows for added comfort.
4. Ensure Proper Lighting and Equipment: The nurse should ensure that the examination room is adequately lit, allowing for clear visualization during the pelvic examination. Additionally, all necessary equipment and instruments should be readily available and properly sterilized.
5. Support Emotional Well-being: It is crucial for the nurse to be empathetic and supportive during the pelvic examination. Offering reassurance, addressing any concerns or questions the patient may have, and maintaining a calm and professional demeanor can greatly help alleviate the patient’s anxiety.
By following these guidelines, the nurse can efficiently position the female patient for a pelvic examination and contribute to a positive patient experience. It is important for the nurse to be knowledgeable about the procedure, exercise clear communication, and prioritize the patient’s comfort and well-being throughout the examination.
