While obtaining a detailed history from a woman who has recently emigrated from Somalia, the nurse realizes that the client has undergone female genital mutilation (FGM). The nurse's best response to this patient is:
a. "This is a very abnormal practice and rarely seen in the United States."
b. "Do you know who performed this so that it can be reported to the authorities?"
c. "We will be able to restore your circumcision fully after delivery."
d. "The extent of your circumcision will affect the potential for complications."
ANS: D
"The extent of your circumcision will affect the potential for complications" is the most appropriate response. The patient may experience pain, bleeding, scarring, or infection and may require surgery before childbirth. With the growing number of immigrants from countries where FGM is practiced, nurses will increasingly encounter women who have undergone the procedure. Although this practice is not prevalent in the United States, it is very common in many African and Middle Eastern countries for religious reasons. Responding with, "This is a very abnormal practice and rarely seen in the United States" is culturally insensitive. The infibulation may have occurred during infancy or childhood. The client will have little to no recollection of the event. She would have considered this to be a normal milestone during her growth and development. The International Council of Nurses has spoken out against this procedure as harmful to a woman's health.
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