In a CPR situation involving a pregnant woman, what differs from standard procedure?

In a CPR situation involving a pregnant woman, one of the key differences in the procedure is the altered hand position for chest compressions. When performing CPR on a pregnant person, particularly when they are in later stages of pregnancy, the location of the placenta must be considered. The standard hand position during chest compressions is typically in the center of the chest. However, in a pregnant woman, especially if she is in the third trimester, the hand position may be adjusted slightly higher on the sternum to ensure effective compressions while also minimizing potential harm to the uterus and fetus.

This modification aims to maintain the effectiveness of compressions while considering the anatomical differences and ensuring the safety of both the mother and child during the resuscitation process. The adjustments in hand positioning are primarily to maintain the proper force against the heart while preventing any undue pressure on the abdomen.

Other considerations in a CPR scenario with a pregnant woman would involve ensuring that she is slightly tilted to one side, typically to the left, to relieve pressure from the major blood vessels, promoting better blood flow. However, the key difference highlighted here focuses specifically on the adjustment of hand position during the chest compressions.