Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Amniotic fluid containing fetal cells, vernix, and meconium enters maternal circulation through endocervical veins or placental site. This triggers massive complement activation and anaphylactoid response. Phase 1: Acute pulmonary vasospasm causing right heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Phase 2: Consumptive coagulopathy (DIC) from tissue factor release. Mortality approaches 60-80%. Connect Amniotic Fluid Embolism: DIC Pathway to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.