Obstetric Anesthesia Core Knowledge Modules-Advancing Clinical Excellence: Updated Practice OB Guidelines and Educational Excellence

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session introduced AANA’s updated obstetric anesthesia practice guidelines, approved by the Board of Directors and scheduled for release online the following week. The 76-page document expands on the 2017 guidelines, adds more than 250 references, and covers maternal health disparities, mental health, substance use disorder, sepsis, labor epidural conversion, breakthrough pain, and obstetric complications. The recommendations reflect evidence available in July 2026, but are not yet formally graded and do not supersede facility or legal requirements.<br /><br />Dr. Clayton reviewed key practice considerations, including pregnancy-related physiologic changes; individualized, patient-centered care; early assessment of higher-risk patients; and use of point-of-care ultrasound when appropriate. The presentation emphasized equitable communication and shared decision-making, noting disparities in maternal outcomes and the importance of recognizing cardiovascular risks among Black patients.<br /><br />Clinical highlights included low-concentration labor epidurals that preserve mobility, considering replacement of repeatedly inadequate epidurals, and taking reports of pain during cesarean delivery seriously. Other topics included neuraxial anesthesia and hypotension management, medication and airway considerations, hemorrhage protocols, and prompt recognition of sepsis and other emergencies. The speakers also highlighted mental health and substance use needs, including the value of coordinated, individualized care.<br /><br />The session concluded with a discussion of the guidelines’ limitations and an invitation for clinicians to identify evidence gaps and provide feedback for future updates. Attendees were reminded to complete session evaluations by the stated deadline to claim continuing education credits.

Keywords

obstetric anesthesia

practice guidelines

maternal health disparities

labor epidural

cesarean delivery

neuraxial anesthesia

sepsis

shared decision-making

substance use disorder

point-of-care ultrasound

sepsis management

mental health