TEN-360: Obstetric and Neonatal Emergencies

Let's face it - Obstetrics for the non-obstetrically trained is scary and the sick neonate - even more scary! In this workshop we will aim to tackle this head on by exploring a series of clinical cases on day 1 that illustrate the presentation and emergency management of obstetric emergencies including severe pre-eclampsia / eclampsia, placental abruption, preterm labour, preterm prelabour rupture of membranes, complications associated with labour and birthing, and post partum haemorhage. Core skills training on day 1 includes preparation and management of woman presenting in advanced labour to the ED and the management of birthing and complications such as shoulder dystocia.

On day 2 our focus is on the unwell neonate and we focus on the clues and red flags for serious illness and explore a series of clinical cases that illustrate the presentation, differential diagnosis and emergency management of airway obstruction, respiratory distress and circulatory shock in the neonate. Core skills training on day 2 includes basic airway management and ventilation in the neonate, set up of the neopuff ventilator and options for obtaining vascular access in the neonate. 

By the end of the two days you should be a little less scared when you encounter obstetric and neonatal patients and be more confident to assess, recognise the red flags for serious disease and initiate emergency management (while waiting for help to arrive).