Final Answer:
Aspiration is the major cause of maternal death when general anesthesia is administered during childbirth.
thus correct option is a) Aspiration
Step-by-step explanation:
Aspiration is the major cause of maternal death when general anesthesia is administered during childbirth. When a pregnant woman undergoes general anesthesia, there is a risk of inhaling stomach contents into the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. This can be particularly dangerous as it may result in respiratory distress and compromise oxygenation.
During labor and delivery, general anesthesia is sometimes necessary for emergency situations or specific medical conditions. In these cases, if the patient has not fasted or if there are delays in securing the airway, the risk of aspiration increases. Aspiration pneumonia can cause severe respiratory complications, leading to cardiac arrest and even death if not promptly addressed.
Preventive measures, such as fasting before administering general anesthesia and using rapid-sequence induction techniques, are crucial to minimize the risk of aspiration. Anesthesiologists and healthcare providers must carefully assess each patient's risk factors and take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby during childbirth. Continuous monitoring and prompt intervention are essential to mitigate the potential complications associated with aspiration during general anesthesia in obstetric settings.
thus correct option is a) Aspiration