Saving Samantha and her unborn baby
At around 35 weeks pregnant, Samantha arrived at Queensway Carleton Hospital after her water had broken, but was also experiencing bleeding, unaware that she was facing a placental abruption. Placental abruption is when the placenta, or parts of the placenta, separate from the uterus prior to the delivery of the baby. It is a serious complication that puts the well-being of both mother and fetus at risk requiring emergency delivery of the baby.
It was a frightening situation, but the team at QCH acted quickly to provide the care that both she and her baby needed.
It took only 40 minutes from the time of arrival at triage to the time the baby was delivered via emergency C-section where her son was delivered safely. The labour and delivery nurses were reassuring and supportive, keeping her calm and comfortable.
“I was terrified, but the nurses were incredibly kind and soft-spoken. They made sure I felt safe every step of the way,” Samantha said.
QCH’s multidisciplinary team, including Pediatricians, Obstetricians, and nurses, closely monitored Samantha and her newborn for four days.
Their care made all the difference. “Every nurse was wonderful. They answered all my questions, cared for me with incredible gentleness and even helped me learn to nurse after surgery.”
Some caregivers stood out: Kim, the labour and delivery nurse who held her hand during surgery; Dr. Beshara, the skilled surgeon who ensured the procedure went smoothly; and Dr. Nguyen, the anesthesiologist who comforted her when her husband had to leave with their baby. “I was fortunate to have such a great team of doctors and nurses looking after me,” Samantha said. “Going to the hospital can be scary, but the QCH team was prepared. They made sure my baby and I were okay.”
Her message to others: never hesitate to ask questions. “The QCH team never made me feel like my concerns were silly. Their patience and compassion helped me feel more confident in my care.”
Samantha’s story is a testament to the life-saving expertise and kindness at Queensway Carleton Hospital, where dedicated professionals make a difference every day, one patient, one family, and one life at a time.
Queensway Carleton Hospital has dedicated professionals who make a difference, one patient at a time. Samantha’s story is a testament to the life-saving expertise and kindness available.
