Which action is inappropriate for a prolapsed uterus in the field?

Which action is inappropriate for a prolapsed uterus in the field?

• A. Reinsert the tissue manually
• B. Cover with a moist, sterile dressing
• C. Transport promptly to hospital
• D. Keep patient comfortable

Answer: (A)

When a prolapsed uterus is present, the priority is to protect the exposed tissue and get the patient to definitive care quickly. Do not attempt to push the tissue back inside in the field. Manual reinsertion can damage the tissue, disrupt blood flow, cause further injury or uterine inversion, and increase bleeding risk. It requires sterile technique and medical supervision that isn’t available in most prehospital settings. What to do instead is keep the tissue moist and protected by placing a moist, sterile dressing over the protruding uterus, keep the patient as comfortable as possible, and transport promptly to the hospital for obstetric/gynaecological management. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina and minimize movement to prevent additional harm.

When a prolapsed uterus is present, the priority is to protect the exposed tissue and get the patient to definitive care quickly. Do not attempt to push the tissue back inside in the field. Manual reinsertion can damage the tissue, disrupt blood flow, cause further injury or uterine inversion, and increase bleeding risk. It requires sterile technique and medical supervision that isn’t available in most prehospital settings.

What to do instead is keep the tissue moist and protected by placing a moist, sterile dressing over the protruding uterus, keep the patient as comfortable as possible, and transport promptly to the hospital for obstetric/gynaecological management. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina and minimize movement to prevent additional harm.