Doula

Category - Communication

During a prenatal consultation, your client says, "My doctor has said he will use episiotomy at his discretion, but I don't want him to cut me." Your BEST response is:
  1. "Episiotomy is not necessary."
  2. "I can help you outline the pros and cons of episiotomy."
  3. "Most women just go along with what their doctors say."
  4. "I can understand your hesitation. How might you improve dialogue with your care provider?"
Explanation
Answer: D - Asking an open-ended question to elicit more information from the speaker in addition to labeling the emotion "heard" is the core of active listening. This allows the speaker to clarify and problem-solve. Only a physician can decide if episiotomy is necessary, but the client should open dialogue about her fears at a prenatal appointment. Discussing the pros and cons of a procedure with a client is part of a doula's scope of practice, but should be done after identifying the underlying emotions behind a statement. Advising compliance does not help in finding a solution that meets the client's needs as an individual, nor does it recognize her feelings.
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