What does "precipitous" describe in a medical context?

In a medical context, the term "precipitous" refers to something that occurs suddenly and often unexpectedly, typically in a rapid and uncontrolled manner. This can describe various situations, such as precipitous labor, which indicates that childbirth is happening very quickly, often with little warning. The suddenness of a precipitous event can lead to complications if not properly managed. Thus, characterizing an event as "precipitous" effectively conveys both the speed and the lack of control involved, marking it as urgent and requiring immediate attention. Understanding this term is crucial for recognizing situations in clinical settings that may need prompt intervention.