Question

You are performing CPR on a pregnant adult cardiac arrest patient when an AED becomes available to use. Which of the following statements would be correct for this situation?

a) Continue CPR; AED should not be used on a pregnant patient.
b) Use the AED as normal, avoiding electrode placement over the uterus.
c) Avoid using the AED; continue with manual chest compressions.
d) Use the AED; it's safe for both the mother and fetus.

Answer 1

Use the AED on a pregnant cardiac arrest patient by placing the electrode pads to avoid the uterus (option B). The AED can diagnose the heart rhythm and administer a safe shock, increasing survival chances for both mother and fetus.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing CPR on a pregnant adult cardiac arrest patient and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) becomes available, the correct action would be to use the AED. The correct approach for AED use on a pregnant patient is the same as with non-pregnant patients; however, care should be taken to avoid placing the electrode pads over the uterus.

Instead, place one pad below the right clavicle and the other to the left side of the chest, under the breast tissue, to avoid the uterus (option B). The AED can automatically diagnose the patient's heart rhythm and apply a shock with appropriate energy and waveform. Using an AED can be crucial in treating life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation, during which the heart beats in a wild, uncoordinated manner, preventing it from pumping blood effectively.

The use of an AED, in combination with CPR, increases the chances of survival and is considered safe for both the mother and fetus.