Which loading position should be avoided for a pregnant patient in the third trimester with vaginal bleeding?

Which loading position should be avoided for a pregnant patient in the third trimester with vaginal bleeding?

• A. Supine with legs elevated
• B. Left lateral recumbent
• C. Seated position
• D. Standing next to the stretcher

Answer: (C)

In late pregnancy the enlarged uterus can press on the major vessels, especially the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return to the heart and compromising placental perfusion. Positioning the patient seated can worsen that compression and lower blood pressure, which increases risk for both mother and fetus. The left lateral recumbent position relieves this vessel compression, improves venous return, and supports better uteroplacental perfusion, making it the safest loading position.

In late pregnancy the enlarged uterus can press on the major vessels, especially the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return to the heart and compromising placental perfusion. Positioning the patient seated can worsen that compression and lower blood pressure, which increases risk for both mother and fetus. The left lateral recumbent position relieves this vessel compression, improves venous return, and supports better uteroplacental perfusion, making it the safest loading position.