Certified Midwife Exam Prep

Answer: A - During the first 24 hours after vaginal birth, ice packs are intermittently applied to the episiotomy site to reduce the pain and swelling. Perineal care is done using a clean technique. The perineal area should be dried from front to back; the nurse would instruct the client to take showers and avoid tub baths to prevent bacteria from accessing the urogenital tract.