When performing outlet forceps delivery, which of the following station and position criteria must ALL be met?
- A Fetal skull at or on pelvic floor, sagittal suture in AP or ≤45° oblique, scalp visible at introitus without separating labia ✓
- B Fetal skull at +2 station, sagittal suture in any diameter, caput not to be palpated abdominally
- C Fetal skull at +3 station with engaged head, any fetal position acceptable
- D Head at spines (+0 station), occiput anterior position only, cervix fully dilated
Correct answer: A. Fetal skull at or on pelvic floor, sagittal suture in AP or ≤45° oblique, scalp visible at introitus without separating labia
Explanation
Outlet forceps (ACOG classification) requires: (1) scalp visible at introitus without separating labia, (2) fetal skull at/on pelvic floor (effectively ≥+3 station), (3) sagittal suture in AP diameter or right/left occiput anterior/posterior ≤45° from AP. Low forceps = leading edge at ≥+2 station but not at floor; mid-forceps = engaged but above +2. These criteria ensure adequate descent, avoiding difficult traction injuries. Any position (not just OA) is acceptable for outlet forceps as long as rotation needed is ≤45°.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.