What is one of the most common causes of respiratory distress and cardiac arrest in pre/post delivery patients?

Pulmonary embolism is recognized as one of the most common causes of respiratory distress and cardiac arrest in patients who are either pre or post delivery. During pregnancy, several factors increase the risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, including changes in blood coagulability, reduced venous return, and compression of venous structures due to the enlarging uterus. These physiological changes can lead to the formation of blood clots, which can dislodge and travel to the lungs, blocking pulmonary arteries.

In the context of a pre or post delivery patient, the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain, and potential loss of consciousness if the embolism is significant enough to cause cardiac arrest. This makes recognition and prompt management critical for the health of both the mother and the baby.

While aspiration pneumonia, cardiac arrhythmias, and anaphylaxis can also cause respiratory issues, they are not as prevalent in this specific patient population compared to pulmonary embolism. Therefore, understanding the risk factors and clinical presentations associated with pulmonary embolism in pre/post delivery patients is essential for timely and effective medical intervention.