Respiratory Failure and Mechanical Ventilation in the Pregnant Patient.

Fewer than 2% of all peripartal patients need intensive care unit admission. But due to some anatomic and physiologic changes in pregnancy, respiratory failure can be promoted. This article reviews several obstetric and nonobstetric diseases that lead to respiratory failure and the treatment of these. Furthermore, invasive and noninvasive ventilation in pregnancy is discussed and suggestions of medication during ventilation are given.

Trauma Management of the Pregnant Patient.

Trauma continues to be a leading cause of nonobstetric maternal and fetal mortality worldwide. Caring for the pregnant trauma patient requires a systematic and multidisciplinary approach. It is important to understand the anatomic and physiologic changes that occur during pregnancy. Accepted trauma guidelines for imaging and interventions should generally not be deviated from just because a patient is pregnant. Focus should be placed on injury prevention and education of at risk patients to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with traumatic injuries in pregnant patients.