Final answer:
A urinary catheter is used in forceps-assisted births primarily because an empty bladder provides more room in the pelvis, which is essential for the positioning of the baby and reduces the risk of bladder injury. Additionally, it helps maintain a sterile field by preventing urine contamination.
Step-by-step explanation:
Urinary Catheterization in Forceps-Assisted Births
The presence of a urinary catheter on the instrument table in anticipation of a forceps-assisted birth is medically significant. The primary rationale for this intervention is b. An empty bladder provides more room in the pelvis. This is important because it enables easier manipulation and positioning of the baby during the forceps-assisted delivery. Furthermore, by ensuring that the bladder is empty, the risk of bladder injury during the procedure is reduced, and there is less likelihood of spontaneous urination which could contaminate the sterile field.
During surgical procedures, including childbirth, maintaining a sterile field is crucial to minimize the risk of infection. A urinary catheter assists in this by preventing possible contamination from urine. Additionally, in the context of childbirth, frequent urination is common due to the pressure of the uterus on the bladder, and an empty bladder can provide more space for the fetus to descend. The use of a catheter ensures the bladder remains empty, thereby promoting optimal conditions for delivery.