When Seconds Count
What is the First action when maternal cardiac arrest is recognized?
Call for help and start CPR
True or False--Defibrillation is safe for the Fetus.
True
What is an early consideration in maternal resuscitation?
Airway Intubation
Name two "H's" that may cause maternal cardiac arrest
Hypoxia, Hypovolemia, Hemorrhage, Hypothermia, Hypo/hyperkalemia
Why designate a leader during a maternal code?
Assign roles and maintain coordination
Where should chest compressions be performed on a pregnant patient?
Midsternum, with left uterine displacement
Where should defibrillator pads be placed on a pregnant patient?
Front and side
What position should the Airway team maintain during compressions?
Maintain airway while compressions continue uninterrupted
Name two "T's" that may cause maternal cardiac arrest
Thrombosis, Trauma, Tension pneumo, Toxins
What continuous medication must be stopped immediately during collapse if still running?
Magnesium Sulfate
How many compressions per minute are required?
100-120/min
Why should fetal monitors be removed before defibrillation?
Prevent electrical interference and distraction
What is the goal of oxygenation during CPR?
Maximize maternal oxygenation to improve fetal monitoring delivery
What obstetric-specific "E" cause must always be considered?
Embolism--amniotic fluid embolism
During resuscitation, how often should rhythm checks and defibrillation occur?
Every 2 minutes
How often should compressors rotate?
Every 2 minutes
What drug is given every 2 minutes during arrest?
Epinephrine 1mg IV push
Which common obstetric drug must be shut off immediately during arrest?
Magnesium Sulfate
Which anesthetic complication can mimic cardiovascular collapse?
Toxicity/overdose
What intervention can save both mother and baby if ROSC is not achieved quickly?
Perimortem Cesarean Section
Above or below the diaphragm--where should IV access be obtained?
Above the diaphragm
What major surgical intervention should be prepared at the bedside within 5 minutes of arrest?
Perimortem Cesarean Section
Why is bag and mask ventilation alone insufficient in prolonged maternal arrest?
Increased aspiration risk + need for definitive airway
What infection-related cause of maternal arrest must be ruled out?
Sepsis
What is the overall goal of maternal mock codes?
Enhance preparedness, role clarity, and improve survival outcomes for mother and baby