Changes during pregnancy

Question 1

Airway

Answer 1

Possible difficult airway as tissues becomes oedematous and friable especially in labour

Question 2

Respiratory

Answer 2

Decreased FRC, and increase O2 consumption, destitution occurs more quickly during apnea

Question 3

Cardiovascular system

Answer 3

Increase BV, Increase RBC mass and mild anaemia
Decrease SVR proportionately greater than increased CO resulting in decreased BP.
Prone to decreased BP due to aortocaval compression therefore for surgery pregnant patient need to be positioned in the left uterine displacement using a wedge under her right flank.

Question 4

CNS

Answer 4

Decrease Minium alveolar capacity due to hormonal effects

Increase block height due to engorged epidural veins

Question 5

GI

Answer 5

Delayed gastric emptying,
Increased volume and acidity of gastric fluid
Decreased Lower oesophageal sphincter tone
increase abdominal pressure
Combined lead to increase risk of aspiration.