BLS Basics
The acronym C.A.B. reflects the correct BLS sequence, what does C.A.B. stand for?
Compressions, Airway, Breathing
Two factors prevalent in pregnant patients that can compromise airway
Edema and increased oxygen demand
Avoid defibrillation during pregnancy
False- shock focuses on mother's heart and is not harmful for fetus; should not be delayed
Proper rate of compressions during adult CPR
100-120 compressions per minute
Where is IV access going to be most efficient?
Above the diaphragm to ensure meds and fluids reach central circulation (If IO is necessary, favor humeral placement over tibial)
AED pad placement must be altered in pregnant patients
False- Placement remains the same for all adults: Upper right chest and lower left side of chest (below breast)
Each compression should reach a depth of _____ and then allow chest to ______ after each compression.
2-2.4 inches/ fully recoil
While searching for reversible causes (H's and T's), what pregnancy related and postpartum complications tend to be most prevalent during a maternal code?
Hemorrhage, anesthetic complications, drug overdoses, cardiac anomalies, or pulmonary/amniotic fluid embolism
If a pregnant patient codes while receiving magnesium sulfate infusions, immediately stop infusion
True- Also administer calcium chloride if mag toxicity is suspected
The proper compression to rescue breath ratio
30:2
At what time during a maternal code should an emergency c-section be considered?
If no pulse returns by 4 minutes, prepare for emergency c-section (Goal is to have baby delivered by the 5th minute of the code)
Supine is the ideal patient position for proper CPR in all adults
True- Do not move pregnant patient from floor to bed (etc.), but supine on the surface they began coding on allows for the most efficient and effective CPR
Maximum length of pauses during compressions
10 seconds
Allows pregnant patient to be coded while in supine position by avoiding aortocaval compression
Left uterine displacement
Administer biphasic shock 120-200 J with subsequent escalation and resume CPR for 2 minutes before next rhythm check for all rhythms detected during a code
False: Shockable rhythms are V-fib and V-tach;
DO NOT shock if patient's rhythm is PEA or asystole (continue CPR and push Epi (1 mg IV/IO every 3-5 minutes))