Challenges of postpartum haemorrhage: a case study in the aeromedical retrieval environment

Abstract

Postpartum haemorrhage is one of the main causes of maternal deaths worldwide. The presentation of this aetiology in the remote and rural setting presents significant challenges to both referring and retrieval clinicians. A safe, timely and robust response to transferring these patients direct to definitive care is necessary. This article considers the case of a 36-year-old female who presented to the Emergency Medical Retrieval Service with a slow but worsening onset of abdominal pain and persistent vaginal bleeding. The patient was 16 days postpartum following the uncomplicated birth of her third child. Treatment delivered to the patient is included in the case example and discussion given to challenges faced in the areomedical retrieval environment. Considerations during treatment, such as communication, resuscitation, investigation and monitoring are also presented. Abstract published with permission.