What is the primary concern for a pregnant patient involved in a vehicle accident during her third trimester?

The primary concern for a pregnant patient involved in a vehicle accident during her third trimester encompasses several serious risks, notably including the potential for placental abruption, risk of injury to the fetus, and hypovolemic shock.

During the third trimester, the fetus is larger and more vulnerable, making any external trauma a significant concern. Placental abruption is a critical issue where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall due to the trauma, leading to potential maternal hemorrhage and fetal distress or demise. The risk of injury to the fetus can manifest through direct trauma or complications arising from other injuries sustained by the mother, such as internal bleeding or organ damage.

Hypovolemic shock can also occur, particularly if the mother sustains significant injuries that lead to blood loss. The presence of any of these complications requires immediate medical assessment and intervention to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, recognizing that all these concerns are interconnected and critically important reflects a comprehensive understanding of the risks involved in such a situation. This multidimensional approach underscores the necessity of considering every potential hazard when evaluating the health and safety of both mother and child post-accident.