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Emergency call to the gynae/obstetric theatre
Over the years I have on occasion been called to the gynae/obstetric theatre. Here are a few tips I have learned.
1 Usually the patient is catheterised. Ask. If she is not, then do so as you may otherwise struggle to get a view.
2 Take time to stop the bleeding before you begin. This sounds obvious but unless you do, you will just sit in a sea of ooze and struggle. Don’t use suction – at least initially. Instead, put a series of large packs in and apply a little pressure whilst getting organised.
3 Request your usual instruments. Take out the gynae retractors and put in something you are happy with. Theirs are often less than useful. I like the self-retaining Book-Walter. I use a head light. I like to use a 5/8th Monocryl suture which has a lovely circumference that allows the tip to present itself back to you once it has passed through the tissue and it is great for under-running large veins.
