Hailey Okula, known to many as Nurse Hailey, has tragically passed away due to complications from childbirth. She welcomed her son, Crew, after years of struggling with infertility. Hailey was a dedicated nurse and entrepreneur who inspired countless people through her platform, RN New Grads. Her journey to motherhood was marked by resilience and determination, as she and her husband, Matthew, navigated a lengthy IVF process. Hailey's legacy will live on through her son and the lives she touched in the nursing community.
Hailey's Background and Pregnancy
View this post on Instagram
Nurse Hailey worked at Mercy General Hospital and was celebrated for her dedication to patient care. She gave birth on June 10 but developed severe postpartum complications. Some of them included uncontrolled bleeding and organ failure. Despite emergency treatment, she passed away. Her husband, Matthew Okula is an engineer with the Los Angeles Fire Department. In an instagram post, he praised her unwavering dedication and love. "Words can't capture how desperately we wanted to be parents," he shared in the caption, reflecting on their journey together.
How Did Nurse Hailey Okula Die?
View this post on Instagram
Hailey delivered a healthy baby boy at Mercy General Hospital. Initially, doctors reported no issues. But within hours, she complained of intense abdominal pain and dizziness. Tests revealed postpartum haemorrhage (excessive bleeding), a leading cause of maternal deaths globally.
The doctors performed emergency surgery to stop the bleeding. However, her blood pressure dropped dangerously low, and her kidneys began failing. She was moved to the ICU but never regained stability. Doctors tried multiple blood transfusions and medications. A 2023 study published on PubMed found 60% of maternal deaths are preventable. Researchers noted that 40% of hospitals lack protocols for severe postpartum haemorrhage.
ALSO READ: Kylie Kelce and Husband Jason Welcome Their 4th Baby Girl: Know Her Name and Its Meaning
How to Reduce Risks During Childbirth
Childbirth complications can happen to anyone, but being informed and prepared can help reduce risks. Here are important steps expectant mothers and their families can take:
Choose the Right Healthcare Provider & Facility
- Pick an experienced obstetrician or midwife who listens to your concerns.
- Deliver at a hospital with 24/7 emergency obstetric care, and especially important for high-risk pregnancies.
Know the Warning Signs
Seek immediate medical help if the mother experiences:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking more than 1 pad per hour)
- Severe headache or blurred vision (could indicate high blood pressure)
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Fever over 100.4°F (sign of infection)
- Little/no urination (kidney distress sign)
Understand Your Risk Factors
Certain conditions increase childbirth risks:
- Anaemia (low iron)
- High blood pressure/preeclampsia
- Diabetes (gestational or pre-existing)
- Previous C-section or complicated delivery
Have a Post-Birth Monitoring Plan
- The first 24-48 hours after delivery are most dangerous.
Ask your doctors:
- What emergency protocols do you have for haemorrhage or blood clots?
- How often will you check my vitals after delivery?
Advocate for Yourself
- Bring a partner/friend to appointments who can speak up if you're unable to.
- If something feels wrong, insist on evaluation. Don't dismiss symptoms as normal.
Conclusion
Hailey Okula’s death reminds us that maternal care improvements are urgent, even for healthcare workers. Her story underscores the need for better training, equitable care, and awareness. As families celebrate new life, hospitals must prioritise protecting mothers. While we mourn a life cut short, we must channel our grief into action: demanding better protocols, supporting maternal health research, and empowering expectant mothers with knowledge.