A Nursing Protocol for Vaginal Ring Pessary Change The intention is for a First Level Registered Community Nurse to be able to fit a ring pessary in order to correct a uterine or vaginal prolapse. Ring pessaries need to be changed after three months, or as advised by a GP or The vagina and cervix should be examined at the same time and their condition 01 Prescribed ring pessary 01 Jug, soap and warm water Suresh Y, Jaiyesimi R. Mechanical devices for genital organ Adams E, Thompson A, Maher C, et al Mechanical devices for pelvic organ prolapse in women. Cochrane UKCC (2001) The Prep Handbook, United Kingdom, Central Council, London UKCC (1992) The Scope of the Professional Practice, United Kingdom, Central Council, London ©2013 Bray Group Limited

A Nursing Protocol for Vaginal Ring Pessary Change The patient should be given an explanation of the To enable the patient to understand the procedure and give procedure, its aims and be shown the ring pessary. valid consent, as well as allaying anxiety. The patient should pass urine and swab the vulval area To help reduce the risk of introducing infection and promote from front to back with clean water. comfort. The patient should be asked to remove pants, corsets, To allow the patient to position herself correctly for the stockings, tights and to lie on the couch/bed covered by procedure and...

A Nursing Protocol for Vaginal Ring Pessary Change ACTION If inspection of the pessary reveals cracking or other defects, it should not be re-used. If the pessary is in good condition, it may be cleaned with soap and water and be re-used up to three months. To help reduce the risk of complications arising, such as infection, ulceration of vaginal mucosa and irritation. To insert the pessary, the nurse should hold the pessary with the thumb and forefinger of the dominant hand, the pessary should be compressed into an oval shape, then a water-based lubricant should be applied. To allow comfortable,...

A Nursing Protocol for Vaginal Ring Pessary Change ACTION The nurse should check that the patient understands about the management of the ring pessary and that she has instructions for her observations. The patient will be able to identify any complications which may occur and notify the nurse or GP as soon as possible for treatment. An appointment should be made for a future pessary change and check up. The nurse should give her name and telephone number for the patient to contact if any problems occur. Fitted pessary and patient health should be monitored and recorded. The nurse will ensure...