Resuscitative hysterotomy and the challenge of high acuity low occurrence (HALO) situations

Abstract

This case study is based on a resuscitative hysterotomy performed in the emergency department of a small hospital in the Region of Zealand in the absence of gynaecological, obstetric or paediatric staff. Based on this case study, the article discusses challenges and solutions associated with conditions involving HALOs. HALOs are often described as occurring pre-hospital or in the emergency department – but in theory they can occur anywhere; Therefore, the topic is particularly relevant to many of our medical colleagues across specialties such as emergency, general and internal medicine, surgery and anaesthesiology, all of whom help staff the country's emergency departments and pre-hospital areas every day.