Post mortem - What went wrong?

[browneggsandham]

I was gathering eggs and noticed a chicken in the box, having contractions. I thought I would get to see an egg laid - which I have never seen before. So, I waited and waited. Was starting to get worried, but I have no idea how long it takes for a hen to lay, so I kept an eye on her. Suddenly, she looked up and put her head against her back, then her head fell over. I went into the coop and picked her up. Her eyes were closed and she was limp. I carried her to the house, but she was gone. I have no idea what went wrong! What should I look for? Here are some things I see:
- some yellowish liquid coming from her vent.
- vent area feels hard (an egg stuck?)
- comb is a little on the purple side - not bright red
- vent is a little red - I don't know what "normal" looks like

Any ideas? What should I be looking for to make sure I catch the problem early enough to help?

Sad Novice Chicken Caretaker

 

[casportpony]

Sorry for your loss... Check inside her vent for an egg.

-Kathy

 

[casportpony]

And read this thread:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/819218/how-did-my-hen-die

-Kathy

 

[browneggsandham]

Thank you, Kathy! That is good information. I have been checking the vents of the other hens - everyone looks good. Are there other signs? Something I can do preventatively?