Maternal trauma is estimated to occur in 1 in 12 pregnancies[1] and is the leading cause of nonobstetric mortality in the United States, accounting for approximately 46% of all maternal deaths.[2] Although the most common maternal trauma occurs with domestic violence and motor vehicle accidents, other types of trauma include falls, assaults, burns, toxic exposure, suicide, and homicide.[3] Trauma in pregnancy poses the unique challenge of needing to evaluate and manage 2 patients. The fetus can be adversely affected, as trauma in pregnancy has been reported to increase the incidence of spontaneous abortion, preterm premature rupture of membranes, preterm birth, uterine rupture, cesarean delivery, placental abruption, stillbirth, and neonatal death.[4] Using evidence-based protocols, OB/GYN hospitalists can provide timely evaluation of pregnant women who have experienced a traumatic injury. OB/GYN hospitalists are also positioned to support and lead multidisciplinary teams to develop institutional guidelines that promote best practices and improve the quality of care for pregnant women with life-threatening injuries.
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