Question

Which is a guideline to be followed when examing a woman who has had a hysterectomy?

A. Omit bimanual and internal palpation maneuvers.
B. Obtain a Pap smear from the suture line if needed.
C. Avoid collecting vaginal cultures and specimens
D. Palpate internal areas before inserting the speculum.

Answer 1

The correct guideline to follow when examining a woman who has had a hysterectomy is to obtain a Pap smear from the suture line if needed. Other options may not be universally appropriate and are dependent on individual circumstances and medical history.

Step-by-step explanation:

When examining a woman who has had a hysterectomy, certain guidelines should be followed to ensure proper care and examination. The correct guideline from the options provided is: B. Obtain a Pap smear from the suture line if needed. After a hysterectomy, it is still possible for women to develop cancer at the vaginal cuff (the suture line where the uterus was detached), hence the Pap smear could be necessary if there’s a history of cervical precancer or if medically warranted. Omitting the bimanual and internal palpation maneuvers (A) may not always be appropriate, as it depends on the type of hysterectomy performed and if there are any remaining reproductive organs that require examination. Vaginal cultures and specimens (C) may be necessary if an infection is suspected. Inserting the speculum before palpation (D) is the usual procedure rather than afterward.