Every day, OBHG clinicians deliver life-saving care for all women with OB/GYN emergencies. Their presence in the hospital and dedication to patients makes a significant difference when every minute counts. Here is an incredible story about a life-saving intervention performed by one of OBHG’s amazing clinicians.
In obstetrics and gynecology, moments can shift from routine to life-threatening in an instant. One powerful story out of Massachusetts reminds us why dedicated OB hospitalists are essential to patient safety—and how their expertise can truly save lives.
A routine procedure turns critical
A 40-year-old patient, with a history of two pregnancies and a prior C-section, came to the hospital for a routine dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure following a miscarriage. What began as a standard, straightforward procedure quickly escalated when the patient began experiencing severe bleeding.
Within moments, a calm, skilled response made all the difference.
The rapid response
Dr. Greta Hanson, OBHG hospitalist and site director, was immediately called in. Using ultrasound, she confirmed that no pregnancy tissue remained, ruling out one potential cause of the hemorrhage. The situation, however, was far from over—the patient had already lost 1700 mL of blood, a life-threatening amount.
With the team’s quick action, a pediatric Foley catheter was inserted to control the bleeding. Antibiotics and estrogen therapy were administered to support recovery. Slowly but surely, the patient stabilized.
A life saved
Thanks to the expertise and vigilance of Dr. Hanson and her team, the patient’s bleeding was controlled, her hemoglobin levels remained safe, and she was discharged the very next day—alive, stable, and on the road to healing.
Why OB Hospitalists matter
This case is a sobering reminder: gynecological emergencies can escalate without warning. Having 24/7 access to OB hospitalists ensures hospitals are equipped to handle the unexpected—saving lives when every second counts.