Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

Rupture of the uterus with increased risk of infection
Increased risk of uterine atony and excessive bleeding
Fracture of the coccyx and bladder trauma
Implications for nursing care
The nurse must be prepared to locate the appropriate types of
forceps when requested. The nurse must support the mother
if she is awake, explaining what is being done. Maternal
comfort level should be observed closely; forceps applications
should involve sensations of pressure but adequate
anesthesia or analgesia should be established so that no pain
results.
The nurse should monitor the FHR closely during application
and traction. Fetal bradycardia may be observed as a result of
head compression and is transient. The neonate delivered
with forceps should be carefully examined for cerebral trauma
or nerve damage.
The nurse must be alert for possible sequele of forceps
deliveries. The mother should be observed carefully for
excessive bleeding, severe perineal bruising and pain,
difficulty in voiding, and cervical or vaginal lacerations.
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