Presentation Information

Suturing Skills for Midwifery Practice

• Speaker: Nell Tharpe , MS CNM, CRNFA, FACNM
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 ACM CPD, 1 ACNM CEU, 0.1 Midwifery CEU

Abstract:

While most midwives are diligent about maintaining pelvic floor integrity during birth, genital tract trauma occurs in up to 70% of women during vaginal birth. Birthing women expect midwives to be skilled and confident in their ability to perform perineal repair. This complex skill set requires multiple learning opportunities to develop both competence and the ability to suture with confidence. Perineal repair skills require manual dexterity and the ability to visually identify and approximate anatomic structures. The ability to perform an effective wound closure requires midwives actively master the skills required for systematic wound evaluation and anatomic re-­‐approximation of tissues. Supportive mentoring and intentional self-­‐directed practice are critical to the learning process. This session focuses on the equipment, supplies, and technical skills used during suturing of the pelvic floor after birth, and recommendations for simulation and practice.