North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

The recommended gauge suture for repairing a tear or incision of the vaginal mucosa is typically 3-0. When choosing the appropriate suture size, it's important to consider the tissue's characteristics and the nature of the repair. The vaginal mucosa requires a suture that is robust enough to provide adequate strength without causing excessive tension or trauma to the sensitive tissue.

A 3-0 suture strikes a balance by being strong enough to hold the tissue together during the healing process while still being fine enough to minimize irritation and promote optimal healing. It provides the necessary tensile strength to withstand the normal stresses of the area, particularly during activities like ambulation or intercourse, while allowing for the natural elasticity of the vaginal tissue.

Choosing a suture that is too large may cause more damage to the delicate mucosal surface, while a suture that is too small may not provide sufficient support for the tissue as it heals. Therefore, 3-0 is commonly used for this type of repair in midwifery practice.