Question

The LPN understands which describes the purpose of an episiotomy?

a) To speed up the labor process
b) To prevent tearing of the perineum
c) To enhance fetal descent
d) To reduce the risk of infection

Answer 1

An episiotomy's purpose is to prevent tearing of the perineum during childbirth. It is an incision that eases vaginal birth and requires suturing afterwards for healing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) understands that an episiotomy is an incision made in the posterior vaginal wall and perineum. The purpose of an episiotomy is b) To prevent tearing of the perineum. This procedure was once routinely performed to facilitate vaginal birth during the second stage of childbirth, although now the perineum is more commonly allowed to tear naturally. Both an episiotomy and a natural perineal tear require suturing for optimal healing. It is now known that natural tears tend to heal more rapidly, are less painful, and result in less damage to the surrounding muscles compared to a surgical episiotomy.