CERVICOGRAPHY (CERVIGRAM) – Abnormal Findings, Client Preparation, Procedure, Factors Affecting Diagnostic Results and Client Teaching (Maternal and Child Health Nursing)
Cervicography is a photographic method to record an image of the cervix. This test may be done in conjunction with a Pap smear, Colposcopy and/or routine gynecologic examination. The Pap smear detects cellular changes, whereas the cervigram is a more sensitive means to detect cervical cancer. It can identify more cancerous lesions that were missed by the Pap smear
Normal findings: normal cervical tissue, no abnormal cells found
Purpose: to detect cervical cancer
ABNORMAL FINDINGS
- Cancer of the cervix
- Invasive cervical
CLIENT PREPARATION
- Obtain a signed consent form
- Obtain a history of any gynecological health problems (e.g. discharge, abnormal bleeding)
- Explain the procedure to the client. Explain that she may experience some discomfort due to the body position and the procedure
- Be supportive of the client. Allow the client time to express her fear and concerns
PROCEDURE
- Food and fluids are not restricted
- The client is placed in the lithotomy position
- Acetic acid (5%) is swabbed on the cervical area
- Pathgraphs are taken of the cervix
- Aqueous iodine is then swabbed on the cervix; photos follow
- An endocervical smear is taken; tissue obtained is applied to a slide(s)
FACTORS AFFECTING DIAGNOSTIC RESULTS
Cervical mucus that was not removed from the cervix prior to the application of acetic acid and the photography
CLIENT TEACHING
- Inform the client that she may experience a brown vaginal discharge following the procedure for few days. The brown discharge is most likely due to iodine swabbed on the cervix
- Instruct the client that if great discomfort or heavy discharge occurs, the healthcare providers should be informed
