The 26-year-old primiparous patient is having her initial prenatal appointment. The patient reports to the nurse that she suffered a pelvic fracture in a car accident 3 years ago. The patient asks whether her pelvic fracture might affect her ability to have a vaginal delivery. What response by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse can provide initial information by stating that it depends on how the patient's pelvis healed. Further assessment by the healthcare provider will be necessary to determine if a vaginal delivery is feasible or if a cesarean birth is necessary. The nurse can also educate the patient on the different factors that can affect vaginal delivery, such as baby size and position. It is important for the patient to discuss her medical history with her doctor and to follow their recommendations for a safe delivery. Simply telling the patient that she will or will not be able to deliver vaginally without further assessment could be inappropriate and potentially harmful.

The 26-Year-Old Primiparous Patient Is Having Her Initial Prenatal Appointment