SUMMARY POINTS
SKILL
- Pain perception includes both physical and psychosocial elements, and is best managed with both non-pharmacological and pharmacological techniques.
- Paracervical block helps reduce pain, and there are many variations on technique.
- Oral medications such as NSAIDs, opioids or anxiolytics may be used individually or together during uterine aspiration.
- Intravenous pain management may be chosen if monitoring and staffing are available; patients may require provision of respiratory support.
- Deep sedation (a.k.a. general anesthesia) is used, but is not routinely recommended (Ipas 2016).
SAFETY
- Universal pre-procedure antibiotic prophylaxis for uterine aspiration is well supported by the available evidence.
- Attention to allergies, concurrent medications, conditions that compromise respiratory status, recommended dose limits, and antidotes will improve safety.
- The supplies in your emergency cart should be reviewed, along with procedures and regular simulations for emergency management.
ROLE
- In addition to pain medications, utilize gentle procedural technique, deep-breathing techniques, distraction through conversation, the support of a partner, friend, doula, or medical assistant, and the reassuring tone of your voice.