During an emergency, if you suspect an ectopic pregnancy, what should you do first?

In the context of a suspected ectopic pregnancy during an emergency situation, securing IV access and initiating fluid resuscitation is critical due to the potential for life-threatening internal bleeding. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube, leading to possible rupture and significant hemorrhage.

Establishing IV access enables the rapid administration of fluids, which is vital for maintaining blood pressure and perfusion if the patient exhibits signs of hypovolemic shock due to bleeding. This step is essential to stabilize the patient before further assessments or interventions are carried out.

While other actions, such as conducting an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis or administering analgesics for pain management, are important components of the overall care, they should be secondary to ensuring the immediate safety and stability of the patient through fluid resuscitation. Prompt transport to a facility capable of managing such emergencies remains crucial, however, initial stabilization takes precedence to mitigate the risks associated with potential hypovolemic shock from an ectopic pregnancy.