Figure 5-1. Cesarean birth incisions.
b. Indications for a Cesarean Section.
(1) A patient who is unable to deliver vaginally without jeopardizing her life
or health or jeopardizing the health of the fetus.
(2) If there is a disproportion between the size of the infant and the mother's
bony birth canal.
(3) If there is previous classical cesarean section or some other extensive
uterine or vaginal surgery.
(4)
In some women with severe preeclampsia or eclampsia.
(5)
In some women with placenta previa or placenta abruption.
(6)
When there is fetal distress or impending fetal distress.
(7)
In some malpresentation (for example, transverse lie, primipara breech).
c. Nursing Interventions.
(1) Perform preoperative care. Cesarean section is classified as "Major
Surgery." Care is the same as for any abdominal surgery unless an emergency exists
or labor has started. Insert a retention catheter prior to surgery. This keeps the bladder
empty, prevents trauma to the bladder, and prevents obstruction of the surgical field
from a full bladder. Have oxytocin available for administration after delivery.
MD0922
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