How should you position a pregnant passenger experiencing complications?

Positioning a pregnant passenger experiencing complications requires careful consideration, particularly to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being. The correct positioning is on her left side to relieve pressure on the vena cava.

When a pregnant woman lies on her back, especially in the later stages of pregnancy, the weight of the uterus can compress the inferior vena cava—a major vein that carries blood from the lower body back to the heart. This compression can lead to reduced blood flow and may cause dizziness, hypotension, or other complications for the mother and decreased blood flow to the fetus.

By positioning the passenger on her left side, you can effectively alleviate this pressure on the vena cava. This position not only improves blood circulation but also enhances oxygen delivery to the fetus, which is essential in emergencies. Therefore, this method is recognized as a best practice in managing complications during pregnancy.

Other positions, such as reclining on her back with legs elevated or sitting upright, do not mitigate the risk of vena cava compression. While lying on the right side may provide some comfort, it does not address the critical issue of vena cava compression as effectively as the left side does. Thus, positioning on the left side is the safest and most effective choice in this scenario.