Responding to Amniotic Fluid Embolism

The high mortality rate and varying theories as to its cause make it difficult to diagnose AFE, which can occur at any point during labor and delivery, including during cesarean birth. These factors make it important for perioperative nurses to understand and recognize AFE when it occurs in the OR. Rapid delivery of the fetus is imperative for the survival of both mother and child. Monitoring and aggressively providing respiratory and circulatory support interventions are required if the mother is to survive AFE. AORN J 89 (June 2009) 1079-1088. © AORN, Inc, 2009.