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Obstetrical hemorrhage can progress rapidly to a life threatening emergency that demands immediate interventions to stop the bleeding and prevent the onset of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). A clear, concise plan of action is needed to decrease maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The Code Crimson Policy at an academic, community Magnet hospital provides a clear action plan for an obstetrical hemorrhage.  This poster will detail a “Code Crimson” utilizing a case study approach.

Case Study:  31 year old Jehovah’s Witness with a history of a Cesarean section.  Due to diagnosed anemia, malpresentation, and previous cesarean delivery, the patient is high risk for poor outcome in the event of obstetrical hemorrhage; this prompted placement of sheaths by Interventional Radiology that can be inflated to block blood flow to the uterus is case of a hemorrhage during delivery.   

This offering will detail the “Code Crimson” procedures followed by the Labor and Delivery Team throughout this patient’s delivery, inclusive of: notification of additional surgical and anesthesia team members; availability of an Interventional Radiology team; procurement of anticipated blood products and/or a contingency plan in the event of a blood shortage or religious beliefs; and centralized location of necessary equipment.  In addition, lessons learned throughout the development and implementation of the Code Crimson policy will be shared, as well as associated outcomes.  Participants will be able to impart these learnings within their own care delivery setting.    

The presenting organization has no current or potential malpractice cases related to obstetrical hemorrhage. This presentation case study is within HIPPA compliance, as there are no patient identifiers