Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a commonly encountered emergency on labor and delivery units throughout California. Although medical management is often successful in treating PPH, the obstetrician may have to resort to surgical measures to treat it. In such settings, the care provider may find it practical to have rapid access to surgical instruments and tools designed to treat PPH. Equipment compiled on an obstetrical hemorrhage “cart” is designed to treat vaginal/cervical lacerations and provide the instruments for uterine tamponade or uterine/ovarian artery ligation. In short, the cart would have all the instruments necessary to treat PPH before hysterectomy is performed, if needed. For a checklist of recommended supplies and equipment click here.
Learn how Elliott Main of Sutter's California Pacific Medical Center is improving the care for first labors and births.