Focused transthoracic echocardiography in obstetrics.

Abstract

Key points *Delayed recognition of the sick obstetric patient contributes to maternal morbidity and mortality. *Identification of an acutely unwell pregnant or evaluation of routine observations and basic investigations. *Focused transthoracic echocardiography provides a rapid, non-invasive assessment of the cardiovascular system. *Focused transthoracic echocardiography may help differentiate non-specific, life-threatening signs or symptoms in the obstetric patient such as hypotension or dyspnoea. *Formal training in focused transthoracic echocardiography must be reinforced by ongoing maintenance of skills.