Obstetric transport and airway management

After the first trimester, the parturient experiences anatomic and physiological changes that profoundly affect the airway. Of primary importance to the flight nurse is the fact the parturient becomes hypoxic much more rapidly than does the general population. Recognizing the parturient is at significant risk for aspiration and resulting sequelae is the next area of concern and intervention.

Successful management of the obstetric patient's airway during transport is based on recognition of unique anatomic and physiologic changes; utilizing pharmacologic agents for optimal outcome; and implementation of airway management techniques specific to the parturient.