Obstetrics for Nurses

by Charles B. Reed

Prolapse of the uterus from prolonged traction.

Vaginal tears from the blades or from malplaced head.

Slipping of blades. Traction must be not against the symphysis, but down.

The forceps commonly used in this country (Simpson or Elliott) are so made that the left blade must be introduced first on account of the lock.

The mortality for the child in forceps cases is about six per cent.

Fig. 74.—Forceps operation. The left blade, in the left hand, is introduced first into the left side of the mother so that the curve of the blade fits the child’s head (inside the cervix). (Hammerschlag.)

The axis traction instrument is used but seldom by good obstetricians, since the danger to mother and child in this operation is very serious and it should be reserved for emergencies of exceptional character. Pubiotomy may precede the operation with advantage in many cases. Asphyxia of the child and maternal hæmorrhage must be prepared for.

Fig. 75.—Forceps operation. The introduction of the right blade. (Hammerschlag.)