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Amniotic fluid embolism — FRCA Final MCQ

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HardObstetric AnaesthesiaAmniotic fluid embolismFRCA Final

A 28-year-old woman collapses minutes after delivery of the shoulders. She becomes acutely hypoxaemic and hypotensive, then develops oozing from venepuncture sites; fibrinogen is 0.8 g/L and platelets are 52 x 10^9/L. There is no urticaria or wheeze. What is the most likely cause of the complication?

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Correct answer: C — Amniotic fluid embolism with disseminated coagulopathy

Sudden cardiovascular collapse, hypoxaemia and severe coagulopathy around delivery are characteristic of amniotic fluid embolism. Anaphylaxis may cause shock but would more commonly have bronchospasm, rash and a different coagulopathy pattern. High spinal requires recent neuraxial dosing and produces a high sensory/motor block. Management is supportive resuscitation, early obstetric haemorrhage control and correction of coagulopathy.

Reference: OAA obstetric critical incident guidance; RCoA Final FRCA Syllabus 2026