Before starting an operative vaginal delivery, the clinician should do the following: Confirm complete cervical dilation Confirm an engaged fetal vertex at station +2 or lower Confirm rupture of membranes Confirm that fetal position is compatible with operative vaginal delivery Drain the maternal bladder Clinically assess pelvic dimensions (clinical pelvimetry) to determine whether the pelvis is adequate Also required are informed consent, adequate support and personnel, and adequate analgesia or anesthesia.