For a pregnant patient in the 3rd trimester experiencing hypotension, what is the recommended position to alleviate symptoms?

For a pregnant patient in the 3rd trimester experiencing hypotension, what is the recommended position to alleviate symptoms?

• A. Supine position
• B. Sitting upright
• C. Lay on left side
• D. In elevated leg position

Answer: (C)

During the third trimester of pregnancy, the enlarging uterus can exert pressure on major blood vessels, particularly the inferior vena cava when a pregnant woman is lying flat on her back. This compression can lead to decreased blood flow returning to the heart and result in symptoms of hypotension, which can be detrimental both to the mother and the fetus. Lying on the left side is the recommended position in this situation. This position helps alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, improving venous return to the heart and subsequently increasing blood flow and blood pressure. Additionally, this lateral position can enhance uteroplacental circulation, promoting better oxygen delivery to the fetus. Other positions, such as lying supine, can exacerbate hypotension due to the mechanical compression of blood vessels, while sitting upright or elevating the legs may not provide the same level of relief from the pressure created by the uterus. Therefore, the left side position is the optimal choice to manage hypotension effectively during the third trimester of pregnancy.

During the third trimester of pregnancy, the enlarging uterus can exert pressure on major blood vessels, particularly the inferior vena cava when a pregnant woman is lying flat on her back. This compression can lead to decreased blood flow returning to the heart and result in symptoms of hypotension, which can be detrimental both to the mother and the fetus.

Lying on the left side is the recommended position in this situation. This position helps alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, improving venous return to the heart and subsequently increasing blood flow and blood pressure. Additionally, this lateral position can enhance uteroplacental circulation, promoting better oxygen delivery to the fetus.

Other positions, such as lying supine, can exacerbate hypotension due to the mechanical compression of blood vessels, while sitting upright or elevating the legs may not provide the same level of relief from the pressure created by the uterus. Therefore, the left side position is the optimal choice to manage hypotension effectively during the third trimester of pregnancy.