Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) encompasses a group of diseases characterized by extreme fragility of skin and mucous membranes, resulting in blister formation following minimal injury. There are 4 types of EB, with epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) being the most common. We report our experience with the care of a parturient woman diagnosed with EBS. There is little literature on pregnancy in women with this condition. Special precautions are necessary during diagnostic and therapeutic interventions to avoid bullae formation or exacerbation of existing lesions. Frictional or shearing forces are typically more damaging than compressive forces. Multidisciplinary planning was done for our patient to ensure uneventful labor and delivery. Elective induction of labor was started at 40 weeks of gestation. She eventually underwent a cesarean delivery after failed trial of labor. We present this case to highlight the obstetric and anesthetic implications of caring for a parturient with EBS.

Objective To describe our experiences in preparing our obstetric unit in Westchester County, New York, during the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) pandemic. We focus on describing our timeline, continuously evolving actions, observations, and challenges. Methods With guidance from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), our institutional epidemiologist, and key multidisciplinary faculty members, we evaluated emerging national data as well as expert opinions to identify issues and challenges to create action plans. Results We created and modified policies for our patients presenting for obstetrical care on the labor and delivery unit to accommodate their unique needs during this pandemic. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has posed many unique challenges. Balancing communication, risks of infection to providers, patient autonomy and rights, and resources for testing and personal protective equipment were among the valuable lessons learnt. We have shared our experiences and described our observations and challenges in Westchester County, New York.

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