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Amniotic fluid embolism

Sudden collapse in labour or just after birth.

Source: MBRRACE · standard teaching

Suspect

  • Sudden breathlessness, hypoxia, hypotension, collapse
  • Fits or cardiac arrest
  • Then massive bleeding from DIC

Act

  1. Cardiac arrest call; CPR with left uterine displacement.
  2. Intubate, high-flow O2; vasopressor support.
  3. Major haemorrhage protocol; correct DIC (FFP, cryoprecipitate, platelets).
  4. Deliver baby if undelivered; intensive care.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.