A full term pregnant woman is brought into your emergency in an unconscious state. Froth is coming out from her mouth and her husband informs you that she had a fit on the way to the hospital. You will do all the following EXCEPT:

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

KGMU Nursing Officer 2023 Memory-Based Previous Year Paper

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Make her lie in supine position

Rationale:

In the case of a full-term pregnant woman experiencing seizures (eclampsia), the supine position is not advised. This position can compress the inferior vena cava due to the weight of the gravid uterus, reducing venous return to the heart and leading to maternal hypotension and compromised fetal circulation. Instead, the left lateral position is preferred to alleviate this pressure and optimize blood flow.
The primary goal in managing an unconscious pregnant woman with seizures is to stabilize her condition, ensure airway patency, provide adequate oxygenation, and prevent complications such as aspiration.

Explanation of Other Options:

Do oropharyngeal suction

Rationale: Oropharyngeal suction is necessary in this situation because froth is present around her mouth, which could obstruct the airway and lead to respiratory compromise. Clearing the airway is a priority to ensure effective oxygenation and prevent aspiration.

Give her oxygen by mask

Rationale: Administering oxygen is crucial to maintain adequate maternal and fetal oxygenation, especially during a seizure episode. Oxygen therapy reduces the risk of hypoxia, which can have severe consequences for both the mother and the fetus.

Start IV fluids

Rationale: Initiating IV fluids is essential to maintain hydration and provide a route for administering medications. This is especially important in emergency situations such as eclampsia, where intravenous access is needed to deliver anticonvulsants like magnesium sulfate or other necessary drugs.

Conclusion:

In the management of an unconscious pregnant woman with seizures, the supine position is contraindicated due to the risk of vena cava compression and subsequent maternal and fetal complications. The left lateral position is preferred, while other measures such as airway suctioning, oxygen administration, and IV fluids are critical for stabilizing the patient and ensuring the best possible outcome.