Pregnancy

Question 1

What causes 80% OF OBSTETRIC DEATHS?

Answer 1

-spinals

Question 2

What are some cardiovascular changes associated with pregnancy?

Answer 2

1. 50% INCREASE IN CARDIAC OUTPUT-25% STROKE VOLUME AND 25% HR
2. aorto-caval compression
3. increase in clotting factors which leads to increase in DVT

Question 3

What about the aorto-caval compression do we need to do in the patient?

Answer 3

Put a wedge under the left side of the mom by about 15 degrees
This is to prevent compression on the IVC and the aorta

Question 4

Why should we worry about an aspiration risk in pregnant patients?

Answer 4

1. There is decreased tone in the lower oesophageal sphincter
2. The stomach is displaced upwards for about 18-24 hours post delivery

Question 5

Does the mom platelets increase or decrease?

Answer 5

They decrease below 100 000

Question 6

What are some haemodynamic changes during labour?

Answer 6

1. minute ventilation increases by 300%
2. each contraction causes about 300-500ml blood flow
3. The CO also increases by 50%

Question 7

What happens to the fetus when there is a decrease in blood pressure?

Answer 7

There is no auto-regulation

Question 8

What does the spinal anaesthesia block?

Answer 8

1. sensory
2. motor
3. autonomic

Question 9

What does T1-T4 affect?

Answer 9

the cardiac area- which will cause bradycardia