The human wedge. A manoeuvre to relieve aortocaval compression during resuscitation in late pregnancy

Abstract

The important part of resuscitation in late pregnancy is the relief of aortocaval compression. A manoeuvre to relieve aortocaval compression (the human wedge) is described and evaluated. Eighteen qualified midwives performed basic life support in the supine and wedged position employing the human wedge. Performance was assessed using the Laerdal Resusci Anne Skillmeter. There was no difference (p = 0.4761) in performance of mouth-to-mouth expired air ventilation between the two positions. External cardiac compressions were performed significantly better (p = 0.0005) in the wedged position than in the supine position. The human wedge may provide an alternative to other methods of relieving aortocaval compression.