How should you position a pregnant patient with limb presentation during transport?

How should you position a pregnant patient with limb presentation during transport?

• A. Left lateral recumbent position
• B. Right lateral recumbent position
• C. Supine with legs elevated
• D. Semi-Fowler's position

Answer: (A)

In late-pregnancy transport, the uterus can press on the inferior vena cava when the patient is flat on her back, reducing venous return, cardiac output, and placental blood flow. Placing her in the left lateral recumbent position moves the uterus off the major vessels, improves maternal venous return, and enhances fetal oxygen delivery. This makes the left lateral position the best choice for a pregnant patient with limb presentation during transport. Right lateral or semi-Fowler’s offer less relief of vascular compression, and a supine position would worsen it. While keeping the patient on her side, gently support the presenting limb and continue rapid, monitored transport.

In late-pregnancy transport, the uterus can press on the inferior vena cava when the patient is flat on her back, reducing venous return, cardiac output, and placental blood flow. Placing her in the left lateral recumbent position moves the uterus off the major vessels, improves maternal venous return, and enhances fetal oxygen delivery. This makes the left lateral position the best choice for a pregnant patient with limb presentation during transport. Right lateral or semi-Fowler’s offer less relief of vascular compression, and a supine position would worsen it. While keeping the patient on her side, gently support the presenting limb and continue rapid, monitored transport.