What position should rescuers ideally place a pregnant victim during CPR?

When performing CPR on a pregnant victim, placing her on her left side is ideal due to several physiological reasons. During pregnancy, particularly in the later trimesters, the weight of the uterus can compress the inferior vena cava when the woman is lying flat on her back. This compression can lead to decreased blood flow returning to the heart, which can impair circulation and oxygen delivery to both the mother and the fetus. By positioning the woman on her left side, the pressure on the major blood vessels is alleviated, promoting better circulation and enhancing the effectiveness of CPR. This position is also known to be beneficial in maintaining blood flow to the placenta, which is crucial during an emergency where both mother and child are at risk.

This strategy aligns with standard medical guidelines for handling emergencies involving pregnant women, ensuring that both maternal and fetal well-being are considered.