1. Resuscitation in special circumstances workshop Pregnancy
Version: Jan 2016

2. Learning outcomes At the end of this workshop you should be able to:
treat the pregnant patient in cardiac arrest
list the differential diagnosis of the collapsed pregnant patient
understand the need for early expert help
Know the modifications to standard ALS during advanced pregnancy

3. Case study Clinical setting and history Clinical course
A 38-year-old woman who is 34 weeks pregnant develops shortness of breath and chest pain. She is brought to the ED by ambulance. On arrival she looks cyanosed.
Clinical course
ABCDE
A : clear
B : looks cyanosed, RR 40 min-1, SpO2 85% on 15 l min-1 of oxygen
with non-rebreathe bag
C : P 140 min-1 sinus tachycardia, BP 70/40 mmHg
D : anxious and distressed
E : gravid uterus
What could be the issue? 3

4. Case study (continued)
Clinical course
she loses consciousness and becomes apnoeic
the ECG monitor displays wide complexes at 20 min –1
there are no palpable pulses
What will you do now? 4

5. Case study (continued)
Clinical course
she loses consciousness and becomes apnoeic
the ECG monitor displays wide complexes at 20 min –1
there are no palpable pulses
What are the specific considerations in this case? 5

6. Any questions?

7. Advanced Life Support Course Slide set
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© Australian Resuscitation Council (June 2016)