Scientific ReviewsPhysiologic changes in pregnancy and their impact on critical careYeomans, Edward R. MD; Gilstrap, Larry C. III MDAuthor Information From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX. Critical Care Medicine: October 2005 - Volume 33 - Issue 10 - p S256-S258 doi: 10.1097/01.CCM.0000183540.69405.90 Buy Metrics Abstract Objectives: To describe the major pregnancy-induced physiologic changes that affect the care of patients who are critically ill. Methods: We reviewed relevant textbooks and articles pertaining to physiologic alterations produced by pregnancy. Those changes that have a bearing on patients admitted to an intensive care unit were abstracted, summarized, and organized by organ system. Conclusions: Several organ systems manifest significant change in function during pregnancy. The cardiovascular and pulmonary systems are the two most important with regard to critical care. © 2005 by the Society of Critical Care Medicine and Lippincott Williams & Wilkins