Pre-operative preparations: Here’s how to prepare yourself!
Before a planned Caesarean delivery, there are several pre-operative preparations that will be made to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mother and the baby. These may include:
1. Medical evaluation: The expectant mother will undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to assess her overall health and identify any potential risk factors or complications that may affect the planned cesarean delivery.
2. Discussion of anaesthesia options: The expectant mother will have a discussion with the healthcare team about the anaesthesia options available for the cesarean delivery, which may include general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia such as spinal or epidural anaesthesia. The pros and cons of each option will be explained, and the mother’s preferences and medical condition will be taken into consideration.
3. Fasting: The mother will be instructed to fast for a certain period of time before the scheduled cesarean delivery to ensure that her stomach is empty during the procedure, which reduces the risk of complications associated with anesthesia.
4. IV fluids: The mother may receive IV fluids to ensure that she is well-hydrated and to help maintain her blood pressure during the surgery.
5. Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to assess the mother’s blood type and haemoglobin levels, and to prepare for potential blood transfusions during the cesarean delivery.
6. Preparation for surgery: The mother will be instructed to change into a hospital gown and will have her abdomen cleansed and prepared for surgery, including the placement of a urinary catheter to empty the bladder.
