

The Critical Care Obstetrics Podcast
Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics
Your trusted resource for everything to do with high-risk and critical care obstetrics. Our experienced, interprofessional team shares insights from years of practice, simulation, and team training—making complex topics simple and easy to understand. Sometimes it’s just us, sometimes it’s guests, and sometimes it’s case reviews—always with the goal of helping you provide the best care. Thanks for listening!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 30, 2026 • 44min
Minor Trauma in the ED
Having a pregnant patient arrive to an adult ED after minor trauma presents several challenges for care teams. Maternal and fetal assessment with communication between the adult ED and OB teams is needed. In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Martin and Dr. Suzanne McMurtry Baird discuss these issues.The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Mar 16, 2026 • 44min
Recognizing Green Flags in Obstetrics
Did you know that the presence of a stethoscope on every caregiver is a huge green flag? 🎧 In our latest episode, we discuss how visible engagement in patient care can transform outcomes!When every team member prioritizes assessment, we create a culture of safety and awareness. How can we encourage more hands-on assessments in your workplace? Let’s chat! 💬#NursingAssessment #GreenFlags #PatientSafety #HealthcareTalk #ClinicalPractice #Empowerment #NurseLife #TeamCare #CriticalCareThe experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Mar 2, 2026 • 40min
Recognizing Red Flags in Healthcare
The insights shared in this podcast episode underscore the importance of vigilance in healthcare settings. Recognizing red flags—whether they pertain to patient care, workplace culture, or system processes—can significantly enhance patient safety and care quality. By fostering a culture of awareness and prioritizing structured training methods like simulation, healthcare professionals can work towards creating safer environments for both patients and staff.The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Feb 16, 2026 • 49min
What "Can Do" Culture Can Do in Healthcare, Part 2
Summary:In this episode of the Critical Care Obstetrics podcast, the hosts discuss the implications of a 'can-do' culture in healthcare, particularly in obstetrics. They explore how this attitude can lead to workarounds that, while initially well-intentioned, can negatively impact patient safety and staff well-being. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership in addressing these issues, the need for standardized assessments, and the dangers of normalizing deviations from best practices. The hosts emphasize the significance of clear roles during emergencies and the impact of burnout on healthcare professionals. They conclude with a call to action for team collaboration and empowerment to drive positive change in healthcare settings.The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Feb 2, 2026 • 50min
What "Can Do" can do to your unit
In this episode of the Critical Care Obstetrics podcast, Dr. Stephanie Martin and her colleagues discuss the concept of 'Can-Do Culture' in healthcare, particularly in obstetrics. They explore personal stories that illustrate the challenges and consequences of this mindset, especially regarding patient safety and staffing issues. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the scope of service, the impact of a can-do attitude on patient outcomes, and the need for structured processes in healthcare settings. They also highlight the role of simulation as a tool for improving efficiency and problem-solving in clinical practice. The episode concludes with a call for further discussion on the implications of can-do culture on individual healthcare providers and the potential for burnout.The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Jan 19, 2026 • 42min
When a Mother Dies Pt. 2
The conversation also addresses the moral distress clinicians experience when a mother dies.This episode is for anyone who cares for pregnant or postpartum patients and wants to be better prepared—not just clinically, but emotionally and ethically—when the unthinkable happens. It is a reminder that even when we cannot save a life, how we care still matters profoundly.#MaternalMortality #MaternalHealth #MaternalDeath #PreventableDeaths #MaternalSafety #Postpartum #HighRiskPregnancy #MaternalHealthCrisis #HealthEquity #PerinatalCare #OBGYNThe experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 5min
When a Mother Dies Pt.1
In this episode of the Critical Care Obstetrics podcast, Dr. Stephanie Martin and Suzanne Baird discuss the sensitive and critical topic of maternal mortality. They share a case study of a young mother with chronic hypertension, exploring the clinical challenges and management decisions that led to her tragic outcome. The conversation delves into the importance of communication, support for families, and the need for healthcare professionals to address maternal death openly. They also highlight the alarming statistics surrounding maternal mortality in the U.S. and share personal experiences that underscore the emotional toll on healthcare providers. The episode aims to foster a deeper understanding of maternal health issues and the importance of compassionate care in the face of loss.The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Dec 22, 2025 • 50min
Resuscitative Cesarean Case Review
A tense case review of a pregnant patient who progressed from respiratory distress to cardiac arrest. They cover missed hypertension, interpreting chest x rays, and diagnosing cardiogenic versus infectious causes. Practical discussion of where to admit high‑risk patients, escalation failures, and the timing and logistics of a resuscitative cesarean. Systems fixes, communication, and training needs are highlighted.

Dec 8, 2025 • 36min
Inter-professional Practice
In this episode of the Critical Care Obstetrics podcast, Julie Arafeh discusses the significance of interprofessional training in simulation sessions for healthcare teams, particularly in obstetrics. She emphasizes the necessity of including all team members in training to enhance collaboration and patient care. The conversation covers barriers to participation, incentives for physicians, the importance of confidentiality, and strategies for engaging multiple departments in simulation training. Julie provides practical tips for simulation instructors and encourages physicians to voice their needs to improve their training experience.TakeawaysSimulation based training is practice.You need to practice with the full team to get the complete benefit.If the nurses don't have access, the simulation is very nurse-centric.Identify what is problematic for people about the topic.Let people know what you're going to work on in simulation.Time is money for physicians, so scheduling is crucial.Physicians may hesitate to attend simulation due to fear of looking bad.Confidentiality in simulation allows for mistakes without blame.Interprofessional simulation enhances teamwork and patient outcomes.Engaging multiple departments in simulation is essential for comprehensive training.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Interprofessional Training04:41 Identifying Barriers to Participation10:32 Incentives for Physician Participation14:10 Overcoming Reluctance and Building Confidence19:44 Ensuring Confidentiality in Simulation25:35 Collaborative Interdepartmental SimulationsThe experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...

Nov 24, 2025 • 58min
Interview with Hospitalist Courtney Martin
In this episode of the Critical Care Obstetrics podcast, Dr. Courtney Martin discusses her role as an OB hospitalist and the evolving landscape of obstetric care. She emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in maternal safety, the impact of wellness bias on patient care, and the need for strong team dynamics in healthcare settings. Dr. Martin also addresses the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the necessity for hospitalists to advocate for standardized care while maintaining patient autonomy. The conversation highlights the critical role of OB hospitalists in improving outcomes for mothers and babies alike.The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...


