The Vedalas bring in special guests for this episode of Vitals Visions to speak about Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE) Awareness. Lacey Heidel, BSN, RNC-OB of Norman Regional's OBED and Labor and Delivery units and Lea Ann Stephens, RN of Norman Regional's Infection Prevention department talk to the Vedalas about AFE symptoms, treatment during labor and more. The two also tell the story of their own personal tie to an AFE with their patient and daughter, Jacie's, AFE. Lacey was Jacie's Labor and Delivery nurse. Lea Ann is Jacie's mother.

According to afesupport.org, "AFE is an unexpected life-threatening complication. It can affect both mother and baby. It is thought to result from an allergic-like reaction to the [amniotic] fluid that enters the mother's bloodstream. It can occur during labor or soon after delivery." To learn more about AFE, what you can do to help or for support resources, visit afesupport.org.

March 27 is designated as AFE Awareness Day.
This episode is in loving memory of Jacie Stephens Cochran and Andrea Neill.

Links:
AFE Foundation
For Clinicians: AmnioticFluidEmbolism.org - Research and Education
Blog: Amniotic Fluid Embolism, Labor and Delivery Nurses and How your Blood Donations Help
Blog: Norman Regional Earns First-in-National OBED Accreditation
Blog: PTSD, Healthcare Workers: What You Need to Know, How to Get Help

This podcast is for educational purposes only. The information in this show is not to be used as medical advice. If you are needing medical care, please consult with your physician.

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