Final answer:
When giving CPR to a pregnant patient, there are important modifications to consider. These include positioning the patient on her left side, placing the hands higher on the sternum, and compressing the chest to a depth of at least 5 cm.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modifications to Take When Giving CPR to a Pregnant Patient
When administering CPR to a pregnant patient, there are a few modifications that should be made to ensure both the mother and the baby receive proper care.
- Positioning: Place the pregnant patient on her left side to help improve blood flow to the heart and uterus.
- Hand placement: When performing chest compressions, it is important to position the hands higher on the sternum, between the lines at T4 and T9, to avoid putting pressure on the uterus.
- Compression depth: Compress the chest at least 5 cm deep, ensuring adequate blood flow is generated to supply oxygen to the mother and baby.
By following these modifications, you can provide effective CPR while considering the unique physiological changes that occur in pregnant patients.