Words Matter After a Severe Maternal Event

Clinician speaking compassionately with a patient after a severe maternal event to support emotional healing and trust

In healthcare, we see tragedy. We see triumph. What we say matters, especially after a severe maternal event. In obstetric care, teams often work heroically to save lives. When a patient survives a life-threatening complication, clinicians may feel relief, pride, and gratitude. However, the language used after the emergency can shape how patients process what … Read more

The Weight of “We Did Everything Right”: When Good Care Still Has Bad Outcomes

Hospital clinician sitting on a patient bed with head in hand after a severe medical outcome, reflecting the emotional weight of good care with bad outcomes

In medicine, especially in obstetrics, we are taught that following guidelines, acting quickly, and working well as a team leads to good outcomes. And often, it does. But sometimes, despite excellent care, a patient nearly dies. A newborn requires resuscitation. A family leaves the hospital changed forever. The care met every standard, yet the outcome … Read more

In an Obstetrical Emergency: Coordinating the Multidisciplinary Team in the Emergency Room

Healthcare team coordinating care in an obstetrical emergency

Obstetrical emergencies place extraordinary demands on emergency room teams. Two lives are at stake. Decisions must be made quickly. Clinical complexity intersects with emotional intensity. In these moments, outcomes depend not only on medical knowledge, but on how effectively a multidisciplinary team coordinates care. Emergency physicians, obstetricians, nurses, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, midwives, respiratory therapists, and support … Read more

Why Obstetric Emergency Training Matters in the Emergency Department

Emergency department clinicians participating in hands-on obstetric emergency training using a childbirth simulation mannequin

Obstetric emergencies are uncommon in many Emergency Departments, but when they occur, they are among the most dangerous events clinicians face. These cases involve two patients, evolve rapidly, and require seamless coordination across multiple disciplines. For these reasons, obstetric emergency training in the emergency department is a major focus for patient safety and regulatory preparedness. … Read more

In an Obstetrical Emergency: Keeping the Multidisciplinary Team Working Together in the Emergency Room

Multidisciplinary teamwork in obstetrical emergency care

Obstetrical emergencies are some of the most complex and high-stakes situations encountered in the emergency room. Two patients are involved. Time is critical. Emotions run high. Success depends not only on clinical expertise, but on how well a diverse group of professionals can function as one coordinated team. Emergency physicians, obstetricians, nurses, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, midwives, … Read more

How a Crisis Clipboard With an Algorithm Can Save Lives in Obstetrical Emergencies

Pregnant patient holding hands with a healthcare provider

Obstetrical emergencies are rare, high stakes, and fast moving. Events like shoulder dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia, and umbilical cord prolapse can escalate within minutes. In these moments, even experienced teams are vulnerable to cognitive overload. This is where a crisis clipboard with a clear algorithm becomes a powerful patient safety tool in obstetrical emergencies. Why … Read more

Shoulder Dystocia Maneuvers Explained: Recognition, Management, and Documentation

Mother holding newborn baby after delivery in hospital maternity room

Shoulder dystocia is a rare but serious obstetric emergency that occurs during vaginal delivery. The baby’s shoulders become stuck after the head delivers, which prevents the rest of the body from emerging normally. While uncommon, shoulder dystocia requires immediate recognition and a coordinated response to reduce the risk of injury to both the baby and … Read more