tailieunhanh - Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America, guest edited by Henry Galan

Every medical or surgical specialty has emergencies that are somewhat specific to that specialty. This is also true in obstetrics and gynecology. However, several characteristics set the specialty of Ob/Gyn apart from all others. Not only can nearly all of the emergencies seen in other specialties be seen in the field of Ob/Gyn, but pregnancy also brings a new and unique dimension to emergency situations in our specialty. Three primary characteristics of Ob/Gyn set it apart from other fields of medicine when it comes to emergencies: (1) it is the only specialty committed completely to women; (2) it is the only specialty in which a single emergent event. | ELSEVIER VUADtRt OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY CLINICS OF NORTH AMERICA ELSEVIER SAUNDERS Obstet Gynecol Clin N Am 34 2007 xvii-xviii OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY CLINICS OF NORTH AMERICA Foreword William F. Rayburn MD Consulting Editor This issue of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America guest edited by Henry Galan MD pertains to emergencies that can occur in obstetrics and gynecology. An obstetrician-gynecologist may be confronted with a sudden emergency at any time either at the hospital or in the outpatient setting. Prompt corrective action is necessary whether it is severe postpartum hemorrhage acute chest or abdominal pain or an anaphylactic reaction to an injection in the office. Preparing for an emergency requires planning provision of resources awareness of early warning signs and specialized trainees who are aware of what to do in an emergency. Certain emergencies such as a massive pulmonary embolus or a complete abruptio placentae can be sudden and potentially catastrophic. Standardized responses will increase the efficiency and quality of care. A protocol should provide a full evaluation of the problem and clearly communicate the patient care issue. Periodic drills may lead to a more standard response with a favorable outcome. Planning for potential emergency events such as anaphylactic shock or cardiopulmonary resuscitation can be complex. At a minimum it should involve an assessment of suspected risks related to the underlying condition. All physicians should be familiar with the crash cart. By placing necessary items in one place time is not lost in gathering supplies. A small kit can be created for handling allergic reactions. As with a crash cart this kit must be maintained regularly to ensure that supplies are current. It becomes clear with any emergency when to call for help. Activation of a response team before a full arrest may lead to improved survival and less 0889-8545 07 - see front matter 2007 Elsevier Inc. All .