Question

a trauma patient who is 30-weeks pregnant arrives at the emergency department following a motor vehicle collision. which normal physiologic change should be considered when assessing ventilatory status?

Answer 1

In assessing the ventilatory status of a 30-week pregnant trauma patient, one must consider the increased respiratory minute volume and the pressure exerted on the diaphragm by the growing uterus, which can cause shortness of breath.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing the ventilatory status of a trauma patient who is 30-weeks pregnant following a motor vehicle collision, it is essential to consider the normal physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. During the second half of pregnancy, there is a significant increase in the mother's respiratory minute volume by 50 percent to meet the oxygen demands of the fetus and support the increased maternal metabolic rate. However, as the uterus grows, it exerts upward pressure on the diaphragm, reducing the volume of each inspiration and potentially causing dyspnea, or shortness of breath.

This is particularly relevant in a trauma situation where respiratory function may be compromised. Additionally, during the last several weeks of pregnancy, the phenomenon known as lightening occurs where the fetus descends lower in the pelvis, which may relieve some of the pressure on the diaphragm and ameliorate dyspnea. In an emergency trauma scenario, understanding these changes is critical for proper management and treatment.

Answer 2

The assessment of a pregnant trauma patient's ventilatory status must take into account the increased respiratory minute volume and the pressure on the diaphragm from the growing uterus, often leading to shortness of breath.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing the ventilatory status of a trauma patient who is 30-weeks pregnant following a motor vehicle collision, it is crucial to consider the normal physiological changes of pregnancy that could affect respiration. Throughout the second half of pregnancy, there is an increase in respiratory minute volume by 50% to meet the oxygen demands of both the fetus and the increased maternal metabolic rate. Moreover, the growing uterus puts upward pressure on the diaphragm, reducing the volume of each breath and potentially leading to dyspnea, or shortness of breath.