What should be considered when a patient is pregnant during resuscitation?

What should be considered when a patient is pregnant during resuscitation?

• A. No obstetric contraindications to chest compressions
• B. Defibrillation should be delayed until after delivery
• C. Chest compressions are contraindicated
• D. Oxygen should be withheld to avoid fetal distress

Answer: (A)

During resuscitation, pregnancy does not create a contraindication to chest compressions. You should perform high-quality CPR just as you would in a nonpregnant patient, with pregnancy-specific adjustments to optimize outcomes. If the pregnancy is at or beyond about 20 weeks, displace the uterus to the left to relieve aortocaval compression and improve venous return during compressions. If a shockable rhythm is present, deliver defibrillation promptly rather than delaying for delivery. Do not withhold oxygen; providing adequate oxygen supports both maternal and fetal well-being. Continue chest compressions while addressing these factors, and if there is no return of spontaneous circulation within roughly 4 minutes, consider perimortem cesarean delivery to improve survival chances for both mother and fetus.

During resuscitation, pregnancy does not create a contraindication to chest compressions. You should perform high-quality CPR just as you would in a nonpregnant patient, with pregnancy-specific adjustments to optimize outcomes. If the pregnancy is at or beyond about 20 weeks, displace the uterus to the left to relieve aortocaval compression and improve venous return during compressions. If a shockable rhythm is present, deliver defibrillation promptly rather than delaying for delivery. Do not withhold oxygen; providing adequate oxygen supports both maternal and fetal well-being. Continue chest compressions while addressing these factors, and if there is no return of spontaneous circulation within roughly 4 minutes, consider perimortem cesarean delivery to improve survival chances for both mother and fetus.