Fisher et al reported a significant benefit of a simulation-based training program in improving maternal-fetal-medicine staff performance, knowledge, and confidence in the management of maternal cardiac arrest. These findings are supported by a dramatic event in our obstetrics department in 2010.

We implemented local team training courses, based on managing obstetric emergencies and trauma principles. The first author (at that time a resident) and nurses who followed this program were able to perform a successful perimortem caesarean section delivery within 5 minutes after cardiopulmonary arrest 30 minutes after artificial rupture of the membranes. Amniotic fluid embolism was the most likely diagnosis after the exclusion of potential other causes for cardiopulmonary arrest. Two weeks after the perimortem caesarean section delivery both mother and child were discharged without any neurologic or other abnormalities.