Pressure used in suction & evacuation in MTP?

Appeared in: NORCET 5 Prelims - Sept 2023 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The standard negative pressure for electric vacuum aspiration (EVA) in MTP is 400-600 mm Hg.
This range provides a balance between effective removal of uterine contents and patient safety.
It is sufficient to aspirate the products of conception without causing excessive trauma to the uterine lining.
Using the correct pressure minimizes risks of complications like incomplete abortion or uterine perforation.

Option A: This pressure range is too low for effective uterine evacuation.
Option C: This pressure is higher than the standard recommended range for electric vacuum aspiration and increases the risk of uterine injury.
Option D: This is an excessively high and dangerous pressure level for uterine aspiration.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Procedural parameters for Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's role is critical in ensuring patient safety during this procedure. This includes checking that the suction machine is functioning correctly and that the pressure is set within the safe range of 400-600 mm Hg before the procedure begins.
During and after the procedure, the nurse must monitor the patient for signs of complications such as excessive bleeding, severe abdominal pain (which could indicate perforation), or signs of shock.
What if? If the patient has a molar pregnancy, the suction pressure and cannula size might need adjustment, and the team must be prepared for a higher risk of hemorrhage. The nurse's role in having uterotonics readily available becomes even more crucial.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of specific parameters for a common gynecological procedure.
First, identify the core of the question: the standard pressure for suction evacuation in MTP.
Recall the different methods of uterine aspiration (Electric vs. Manual) and their typical pressure ranges.
Evaluate the given options. Eliminate ranges that are clearly too low (ineffective) or too high (dangerous).
Select the option that represents the established safe and effective pressure range for electric vacuum aspiration, which is the most common method implied by 'suction & evacuation'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Procedural parameters for Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP).
Stem keywords: Pressure, suction & evacuation, MTP
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE

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E6 Gynecology Williams pp. 161-195, 99-128

Practise the full NORCET 5 Prelims - Sept 2023 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.