General

Synonym/Acronym:
N/A

Rationale
To visualize and assess the endometrial lining of the uterus to assist in diagnosing disorders such as fibroids, cancer, and polyps.

Patient Preparation
There are no activity or medication restrictions unless by medical direction. Instruct the patient not to douche or use tampons or vaginal medications for 24 hr prior to the procedure. The patient may be instructed to be NPO at midnight before the procedure. Otherwise, instruct the patient that to reduce the risk of aspiration related to nausea and vomiting, solid food and milk or milk products are restricted for at least 6 hr, and clear liquids are restricted for at least 2 hr prior to general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, or sedation/analgesia (monitored anesthesia). The American Society of Anesthesiologists has fasting guidelines for risk levels according to patient status. More information can be located at www.asahq.org.

Regarding the patient’s risk for bleeding, the patient should be instructed to avoid taking natural products and medications with known anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic properties or to reduce dosage, as ordered, prior to the procedure. Number of days to withhold medication is dependent on the type of anticoagulant. Note the last time and dose of medication taken. Protocols may vary among facilities.

Patients on beta blockers before the surgical procedure should be instructed to take their medication as ordered during the perioperative period.

Normal Findings

• Normal uterine appearance

Critical Findings and Potential Interventions
N/A