Supine Hypotensive Syndrome

Supine hypotensive syndrome often occurs only in mothers who are greater than 20 weeks pregnant and results as the gravid uterus obstructs the inferior vena cava, which in turn, reduces venous return and blood preassure. In severe cases, this may lead to hypotension and syncope.

If the patient is rolled or positioned laterally, he or she should regain consciousness.

If the patient does not regain consciousness after positioning laterally, a paramedic must look to other potential causes, because supine hypotensive syndrome should be reversible rapidly after lateral positioning.