uterine curettage

Patient care

Preoperative: The health care provider explains and clarifies the procedure, answers any questions, and describes expected sensations. Physical preparation of the patient is completed according to protocol, and the patient is placed in the lithotomy position. Asepsis is maintained throughout the procedure.

Postoperative: Vital signs are monitored until they are stable, and the patient is monitored until she is able to tolerate liquids by mouth and to urinate without difficulty. A perineal pad count is performed to determine the extent of uterine bleeding, and excessive bleeding is documented and reported to the health care provider. Prescribed analgesics are administered to relieve pain and discomfort. Before discharge, the patient is instructed to report profuse bleeding immediately; to report any bleeding lasting longer than 10 days; to avoid use of tampons, diaphragms, and douches; and to report severe pain and signs of infection such as fever or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Gradual resumption of usual activities is encouraged as long as they do not result in vaginal bleeding. The woman is counseled to avoid the use of tampons or douches and to abstain from intercourse for 2 weeks or until after the follow-up examination.