A checklist for emergency referral
The table below summarises some key points to remember during emergency referral for postpartum haemorrhage, or any of the other life-threatening emergencies described in earlier study sessions.
Important activities during transfer of the woman to a hospital.
Aim to maintain: | Actions |
---|---|
Contraction of the uterus |
Apply gentle uterine massage, or two-handed compression of the uterus, and maintain this during referral |
Empty bladder |
If the woman cannot urinate, insert a self-retaining catheter to drain the bladder and leave it in place during referral |
Adequate blood volume |
If the woman is haemorrhaging or in shock, administer intravenous fluids and maintain the infusion during referral |
Vital signs |
Check colour, pulse, blood pressure, temperature, blood loss, level of consciousness |
Warmth |
Cover the woman with blankets |
Position |
The woman should lie flat, but with her legs raised above the height of her head to help maintain her blood pressure |
Confidence |
Give the woman your emotional support and reassurance; keep her as calm as possible |
Accurate records and referral note |
Write down all your findings and the interventions you are making on the referral note, with the woman's history and identification details |
What are the two most important points to remember about PPH?
Show answer
You should remember that:
- Although some risk factors are associated with PPH, two thirds of women who develop PPH have no known risk factors. Which women will develop PPH is therefore highly unpredictable.
- Because of this you need to be alert to the possibility of PPH for every woman in your care who gives birth. And because PPH is life-threatening you must be ready to take appropriate emergency action, including getting her as quickly as possible to a health facility.
Last modified: Friday, 11 July 2014, 2:16 PM