Which action is indicated first for a late-pregnant patient with hypotension during transport?

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Multiple Choice

Which action is indicated first for a late-pregnant patient with hypotension during transport?

In late-pregnancy, lying flat can press the uterus against the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return to the heart and causing hypotension (and potential fetal compromise). Placing the patient on her left side relieves that aortocaval compression, increases venous return and preload, and rapidly improves blood pressure and perfusion to both mother and fetus. That quick improvement is why repositioning to the left side is the first action. After stabilizing, you’d add oxygen and establish IV access as needed, and arrange rapid transport if indicated.

In late-pregnancy, lying flat can press the uterus against the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return to the heart and causing hypotension (and potential fetal compromise). Placing the patient on her left side relieves that aortocaval compression, increases venous return and preload, and rapidly improves blood pressure and perfusion to both mother and fetus. That quick improvement is why repositioning to the left side is the first action. After stabilizing, you’d add oxygen and establish IV access as needed, and arrange rapid transport if indicated.

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