What should be done for a pregnant patient over 20 weeks in cardiac arrest?

For a pregnant patient over 20 weeks who is in cardiac arrest, transporting them to the closest obstetric (OB) hospital is the most appropriate action. This choice is paramount because patients in cardiac arrest during pregnancy have specific needs that are best met by facilities equipped to handle both maternal and fetal emergencies. OB hospitals possess specialized teams that can provide immediate access to obstetric care, including the potential for emergency cesarean delivery if necessary, as this intervention can significantly improve outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

The close proximity to advanced maternal-fetal medicine can lead to better management of complications associated with pregnancy during cardiac arrest, as well as facilitate timely resuscitative efforts. In the setting of pregnancy-related cardiac arrest, the fetus may not survive without urgent intervention; thus, choosing a facility equipped specifically for obstetric emergencies is crucial. Transport to a facility that specializes in both trauma and obstetrics, rather than simply a trauma center or a general hospital, maximizes the chance for positive outcomes for both the mother and the unborn child.