One of the following is used for rotation of fetal head during delivery:

IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Explanation

Kielland's forceps are specifically designed as rotational forceps to correct malpositions of the fetal head during labor.
Their design includes a minimal pelvic curve and a sliding lock, which are essential features for safely rotating the fetal head within the birth canal.
They are primarily indicated for managing conditions like deep transverse arrest and persistent occiput posterior positions, where the fetal head needs to be turned to an anterior position for delivery.
The sliding lock is particularly useful for correcting asynclitism (tilting of the head) during the rotational maneuver.

Option A: Wrigley's forceps are short, outlet forceps used for simple extraction when the fetal head is already very low on the perineum and visible at the introitus.
Option B: Simpson's forceps are standard traction forceps. Their prominent pelvic curve makes them suitable for pulling but unsuitable and unsafe for significant rotation of the fetal head.
Option D: Haig-Ferguson's forceps are a modification of Simpson's forceps and are also primarily designed for traction, not rotation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Application of Obstetric Forceps as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Choosing the correct obstetric instrument is critical for patient safety. Using a traction forceps like Simpson's to attempt a rotation can cause severe maternal trauma (e.g., vaginal and cervical lacerations) and fetal injury (e.g., skull fracture, nerve palsy).
Nurses play a vital role in preparing for a forceps delivery by ensuring the correct equipment is available, the patient's bladder is empty, and continuous fetal monitoring is in place.
What if? If a rotational forceps is needed for a deep transverse arrest but only traction forceps like Simpson's are available? This would significantly increase the risk of maternal soft tissue injury and fetal injury if rotation is attempted, making cesarean section the safer alternative.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key action required in the question stem, which is 'rotation of fetal head'.
Next, recall the different types of obstetric forceps and their primary functions.
Differentiate between forceps designed for traction (pulling) and those designed for rotation (turning).
Associate Kielland's forceps with its unique design (minimal pelvic curve, sliding lock) and its specific function of rotation.
Eliminate the other options: Wrigley's (outlet/lift-out), Simpson's (traction), and Haig-Ferguson's (traction).

Concept Tested & Keywords

QhH_YrrGH0TIGYjcVnCbUz

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 39-57

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 26-34