Page 30 - EMS CPR Manual V1

CPR during pregnancy
When performing CPR on an obviously pregnant female our technique needs to be modified somewhat due to the changes that occur in the female’s body.
Changes associated with pregnancy include an increased cardiac output, blood volume, breathing rate, oxygen consumption and a reduction in lung volume. This complicates the management of SCA and the delivery and effectiveness of CPR.
Hypoxia (low oxygen levels) is a significant risk for a pregnant female and can occur quickly. There is also an increased risk of regurgitation.
A pregnant female lying on their back will have the uterus applying pressure on the abdominal blood vessels which reduces blood flow to her heart resulting in a reduced cardiac output and low blood pressure.
Although there is a concern for the unborn baby the best way to provide a good outcome for the baby is to provide effective resuscitation for the mother.
1. When performing CPR on an obviously pregnant female physical displacement of the uterus to the left hand side of the casualty will remove pressure on the abdominal blood vessels and provide better circulation.
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CARDIO PULMONARY RESUSCITATION