What positioning technique can enhance chest compressions in a 30-week pregnant patient during cardiac arrest?

Providing manual left uterine displacement is an important technique during cardiac arrest for a pregnant patient, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, such as at 30 weeks. The rationale behind this positioning lies in the impact of the enlarging uterus on venous return and cardiac output.

When a pregnant woman is in a supine position, the weight of the uterus can compress the inferior vena cava, which can lead to decreased blood flow back to the heart. This compression can significantly impair circulation, making effective chest compressions more difficult. By manually displacing the uterus to the left, the pressure on the vena cava is reduced, thereby enhancing venous return and improving blood flow during resuscitation efforts.

This technique is particularly critical in emergency situations like cardiac arrest, where maintaining effective circulation is essential for the survival of both the mother and the fetus. Thus, the manual left uterine displacement not only optimizes the conditions for performing chest compressions but also plays a vital role in the overall management of a pregnant patient in distress.