by Chris Colwell, MD; Paul Murphy, MA, MSHA; & Tamara Bryan, BS, EMT-P On Mar 1, 2004
A variety of anatomic and physiologic changes occur during pregnancy. In most cases, there is minimal impact on the mother's health. However, there is the possibility that EMS providers will be called to assist a pregnant female.1 Managing the pregnant patient can present unique challenges. Always remember that you are caring for two patients-the mother and the unborn fetus.
The following article provides an overview of the physiologic changes associated with pregnancy, assessment and management of the pregnant patient, examples of pregnancy-related complications, as well as assessment and treatment options to consider when helping a gravid female. Having this background may prove to be invaluable when assessing and managing the pregnant patient, and may even assist in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality.
Anatomical and Physiologic Changes
Following is a brief overview of the anatomic and physiologic changes that occur in the pregnant woman. Table I offers a summary of common OB/GYN terminology.
Placenta
In a normal pregnancy, the placenta develops in the endometrium-the mucous membrane that lines the uterus. It has several functions, including the exchange of respiratory gases, transport of nutrients between mother and fetus, and hormone production. The umbilical cord connecting the placenta to the fetus consists of one umbilical vein and two arteries and is present from the sixth week of pregnancy through delivery. The vein carries oxygenated blood toward the fetus; the arteries return the blood from the fetus to the mother.2,3
A variety of anatomic and physiologic changes occur during pregnancy. In most cases, there is minimal impact on the mother's health. However, there is the possibility that EMS providers will be called to assist a pregnant female.1 Managing the pregnant patient can present unique challenges. Always remember that you are caring for two patients-the mother and the unborn fetus.
The following article provides an overview of the physiologic changes associated with pregnancy, assessment and management of the pregnant patient, examples of pregnancy-related complications, as well as assessment and treatment options to consider when helping a gravid female. Having this background may prove to be invaluable when assessing and managing the pregnant patient, and may even assist in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality.
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http://www.emsworld.com/article/10324831/prehospital-management-of-the-pregnant-patient