Obstetrical Patient - Preflight Preparation for Air Medical Transport
Criteria for Transport
Preterm Labour:
It may not be suitable to transport some women in pre-term labour who are at increased risk to deliver in flight. The decision depends on the reason for transport, the gestational age (viability), the parity, the labour pattern, and the cervical findings. The decision can only be made in consultation with the Obstetrical MCP.
- Indomethacin is the tocolytic of choice: 100 mg pr, prior to transport.
- If indicated; the initial dose of steroid prophylaxes for improving fetal lung maturity may be given prior to transport.
Pre-Eclampsia
Magnesium Sulfate- should be started prior to transport and following consultation with the obstetrical MCP.
- 4 grams IV bolus (40 gms per litre of Ringers Lactate) 100 cc's over 20 minutes with a maintenance dose of 2 gms per hour.
- Foley catheter should be insitu during MgSO4 therapy.
Antepartum Hemorrhage
Women who have antepartum bleeding, and are now stable, are suitable candidates for transport.
- A blood transfusion may be required prior to transport, therefore packed red blood cells may be requested for transport (if available).
Transport Preparation
- #18 Gauge IV with Ringer's Lactate infusing.
- Recent set of V/S and tracing of the fetal heart rate (if available).
- Recent Lab work
- Medications:
- Gravol 25 mg IV approx. 1 hr prior to transport.
- Steroids, MgSO4, Indomethacin, etc... as discussed with obstetrical MCP.
- Foley catheter; all patients on MgSO4 or as discussed with obstetrical MCP.
The Transport Team Will Require The Following:
A brief transfer note from the attending physician (if possible)
Photocopy of patient's chart including pre-natal record, maternal history, lab work, ultrasounds, etc.
A family member may request to accompany the patient during transport. Due to the limitations within the aircraft, this is not possible for obstetrical transport.
Please discuss this issue or any other concerns with the Air Medical Crew.