CPR for Pregnant Women: Modified Technique and Key Considerations

Standard CPR with Pregnancy Modifications

1. Check Responsiveness: Shout, tap shoulders. If unresponsive, call 911.
2. Chest Compressions:
   • Hand placement: Center of chest (lower half of sternum), same as non-pregnant.
   • Depth: ≥2 inches (5 cm). Rate: 100–120/min.
   • Critical: Place a rolled towel/blanket under right hip (left uterine displacement) to relieve aortocaval compression.
3. Rescue Breaths: 2 breaths after 30 compressions. Watch for chest rise.
4. Continue until: ROSC, AED arrives, EMS takes over, or rescuer exhausted.

Late Pregnancy (≥20–24 Weeks) – Additional Considerations

• If uterus is palpable at/above umbilicus, manual left uterine displacement (LUD) during compressions is essential.
• Prepare for perimortem C-section if no ROSC in 4 minutes (goal: delivery by 5 minutes) to save mother and fetus.
• AED pads: Place anterior-lateral; avoid breast tissue. Shock if indicated.

Training in maternal CPR is strongly recommended for healthcare providers and lay responders.