Step-By-Step Guide To CPR During Pregnancy
Cardiac arrest is a deadly killer, which can strike anyone and at any time. Certain groups are more prone to the disease like those with heart disease or with a known heart defect. Pregnant woman do not fall into this category, but they can also be at risk from the condition. This article will show you how to deliver Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to a pregnant woman, as the process is not widely discussed on first aid training courses.
When any adult suffers a cardiac arrest it is dramatic because the body quickly becomes starved of oxygen. The drama of this event can double two fold when a pregnant woman is carrying her unborn child. The pregnant woman's heart will in effect have stopped, which also starves the baby of oxygen. The baby can quickly become brain damaged and can survive for only several minutes without oxygen. Common causes of the condition during pregnancy include hypertensive disorders, haemorrhage and ectopic pregnancies.
Initially the best way of saving mother and baby during cardiac arrest is through CPR, which artificially delivers oxygen around the body. The process is taught globally through a network of first aid training courses, but very few discuss or demonstrate how to modify the approach when dealing with a pregnant woman.
During resuscitation it is essential to place padding under the woman's right buttock, which will have the effect of tilting her towards the left. This effectively moves the weight of the baby off the mother's deep veins, and will encourage the movement of blood back to the heart. Chest compressions can then be carried out as per the normal protocol. The first aider may however need to take extra time to ensure that they are correctly aligned on the breastbone.
CPR should always be carried out on the flattest surface that is available. This may mean moving a pregnant woman from a soft bed / sofa. There is no specific guideline on the amount of tilt that should be applied; however it should never inhibit chest compressions. The best items to raise the body outside of hospitals would be cushions or rolled up towels.
No matter what happens post resuscitation care is going to be absolutely essential. CPR is an invaluable tool in these situations, but ultimately it does not have the capacity to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest. This is why it is essential that the emergency services are called as soon as it has been established that the pregnant woman has stopped breathing.
No harm can come from using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on a pregnant woman. One should be used if it is readily available, and if the first aider is confident with using it. However it may be easier in the first aiders mind to focus on CPR and wait for the arrival of the emergency services; who always carry and AED with them.
The pregnant woman's chances of survival may be slim, but this can be dramatically increased with the early application of CPR.
About the Author
Bill Casserley is a dedicated first aid instructor, who regularly volunteers at sporting events. Did you know the skills that were outlined in the article? If not then visit the basic life support training learning zone @ http://www.train-aid.co.uk for free tips.
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