The impact of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on the postcesarean patient.

Nurses need to be actively involved in current research on TENS therapy. A thorough in-service training program for all nurses involved in the TENS program must be developed in order for nurses to knowledgeably assist their patients in maximal adaptation to TENS therapy. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy is not a panacea in postpartal pain management. It can be argued that TENS is another extension of technology interfering with the original natural simplicity of the birthing process; however, further research in the technique needs to be conducted before TENS can be rejected as such. Ultimately, the goal of postpartal care for the cesarean-birth family is to allow the parents to enjoy the birth experience without the dangers of the past and the, at times, unnecessary interference of the present. TENS therapy may be a means toward that end.